11 best cabin-approved strollers you can take on the plane

Tested by parent tester, Jilly: Read our full Stokke YOYO x Bonpoint Beige review

The new Stokke YOYO³, with its newborn pack - a separate textile set from the standard seat - includes a comfortable 2.5 cm flat-lying mattress, additional head support, a foot cover, and a pop-up canopy with two opening positions. It's a game-changer for travel, thanks to its remarkably compact fold that fits in an overhead compartment.

Notably, airlines like Virgin Atlantic recognise its efficiency, listing it as an acceptable hand luggage option. In fact, out of all the cabin-approved strollers on our list, the YOYO³ comes out tops for the smallest compact fold (along with the Cybex Coya which has the same dimensions). 

The newly improved sturdy canopy still doesn’t extend as far forward as some competitors, but offers enough protection and is made from durable materials along with the rest of the stroller. Although the seat reclines with ease, it needs two hands and maintains a slight angle in the upright position. Nevertheless, the soft, cushy seat and padded harness straps prioritise your child's comfort and safety. Despite its limited recline, parents find their children nap soundly, attributing it to the ample cushioning.

One of the best things about the YOYO³ is how easy it is to use. The upgraded brake system is super user-friendly, and the new leatherette handlebar feels much more luxurious than the old foam one. Plus, there's a safety strap for extra peace of mind during walks. The buckle system has also been improved, so now you can operate it with just a single push. On top of that, the YOYO³ now has a ventilation window and a peek-a-boo window, which help with airflow and let you keep an eye on your little one. The new super plush cushion adds extra comfort, and there’s even a stylish new fabric set called Bonpoint Beige. It’s a playful yet neutral tone featuring Bonpoint's iconic cherries—perfect for adding a bit of charm to the stroller.

Furthermore, the stroller's enhanced suspension system across all four rubber wheels ensures a smoother ride for your child. However, the undeniable standout feature remains its nearly flat fold, making it the most straightforward choice for hand luggage among all the strollers we tested. However, if you choose the YOYO³ with bassinet, bear in mind that the bassinet is a harder shell and doesn’t fold down with the stroller like the newborn pack does, but needs to be unclipped when folding down the stroller.

Read next: The best lightweight buggies

The Joie Pact stroller stands out as a budget-friendly yet feature-rich cabin-approved stroller for parents. Its lightweight design ensures agility in tight spaces, and it comes with a custom carry strap and bag, which is ideal for travel. The all-weather canopy, with UPF 50+ sun protection and water resistance, offers ample protection in various weather conditions.

Noteworthy for its lie-flat position and multi-position recline, the Joie Pact prioritises child comfort. The peekaboo window, removable bumper bar and adjustable calf support all contribute to ease of use.

Designed for diverse terrain, this lightweight, cabin-approved stroller features locking swivel wheels and four-wheel suspension for a smooth ride, even on bumpy surfaces. The single-step brake ensures quick stops in busy areas. 

In essence, the Joie Pact balances affordability with functionality, making it an attractive option if you’re looking for a versatile, well-equipped stroller to take on holiday.

However, keep in mind that although it folds in seconds, it doesn’t fold completely flat and may feel a little clumsy to carry without the bag. The footrest is also quite small, so although this stroller is suitable for children up to the age of three, your little one’s legs may dangle off the edge of the stroller a little as they grow taller. 

Tested by mum, Laura: Read our full iCandy Pip review

IATA cabin-approved and thoughtfully designed for travel with a young baby, the iCandy Pip stands out as one of the best cabin-approved strollers for newborns. While it’s impressively lightweight at 7kg and compact, it doesn’t compromise on comfort, making it a strong choice for parents who want a travel-friendly stroller that still feels supportive from day one. Its simple lie-flat recline can be adjusted smoothly and quietly, allowing you to lower the seat without disturbing a sleeping baby, which proved invaluable on long journeys.

First-time mum, Laura tested the Pip for eight weeks with her eight-month-old daughter, including a family trip to Cornwall, and was particularly impressed by how easy it was to store and transport. “It was so simple to take on the plane, fit into the car boot, and then use day to day once we arrived,” she says. Once unfolded, the Pip was equally practical, with Laura highlighting how easy it was to steer through busy streets, tight pavements and crowded spaces, ideal for navigating airports, train stations and seaside towns alike.

For newborns, the Pip’s design really shines. The adjustable calf support can be lifted to create a smaller, more cocooned space, helping young babies feel secure, while the soft, reversible seat liner adds extra padding and is easy to remove and wash. The extra-large UPF50+ sun canopy offers excellent coverage from sun, wind and rain, making it suitable for all-weather travel, and the generous under-seat storage, which can take up to 10kg comfortably fits a changing bag, reducing the need to carry extra luggage. The Pip is available in five colourways including the Limestone colourway that Laura tested,

Read next: The best umbrella strollers and pushchairs

Tested by toddler mum, Lily: Read our full Cybex Orfeo review

The Cybex Orfeo is a strong choice for parents who want a cabin-approved stroller that works just as well for day-to-day use as it does for travel. Launched in 2023 and winner of a Red Dot Design Award for its compact fold, it packs down to 52.5 x 47.5 x 15.5cm, small enough for most airline overhead lockers and weighs just around 6.3kg, making it lighter than many premium ultra-compacts like the Bugaboo Butterfly 2 and the Cybex Coya – which our deputy head of content, Laura, also liked but didn’t find particularly sturdy.

Unlike some lightweight travel buggies that can feel a bit flimsy, the Orfeo offers a reassuringly sturdy push thanks to enhanced suspension and solid-feeling wheels. Our tester Lily, who used it daily for a month with her two-year-old, said she felt confident using it straight away, describing it as “very secure and stable, even on hills, it doesn’t move at all once the brake is enabled.”

The one-hand fold is another standout. “I’ve never been so impressed with a stroller that can fold away so easily,” Lily said. To fold, you simply press the main button under the handlebar and the smaller safety button above it at the same time, and the frame neatly collapses in on itself. Once folded, the integrated carry strap makes it easy to carry through airports or onto public transport.

Comfort is well thought out too. The near-flat recline is smooth and controlled, ideal for naps on the go, and the adjustable leg rest and well-padded seat help keep little ones content on longer outings. There’s also a 5kg under seat basket for essentials, and while it doesn’t come with a bumper bar as standard, it is car seat compatible, giving it added flexibility for travel.

Read next: The best toddler car seats

Tested by toddler mum, Michaela. Read our full Silver Cross Jet 5 review

An upgrade from the Jet 3 model which was launched in 2022, the new and improved Jet 5 is a sleek and stylish cabin-approved stroller that features jet black fabric and leatherette detailing.

Three notable improvements on this latest model include a wider, more plush seat, a faster folding mechanism and a genius magnetic buckle system, a unique feature among compact strollers. Folding flat in seconds with upgraded one-motion fold technology, the Jet 5 unfolds effortlessly by flicking the unlock lever and pulling the handlebar sides - a much needed feature whilst navigating busy airports.

In terms of performance, the Silver Cross Jet 5 delivers a smooth push and a comfortable seat, ensuring an enjoyable travel experience for both parent and child. The exclusive magnetic buckle system (which was launched with the Jet 3) truly sets this brand apart, as it’s so easy to open and close without making any adjustments, and seamlessly locks in place.

We also like that this lightweight stroller has a full lie-flat recline for newborns, with an adjustable footrest for added comfort. The built-in newborn nest also offers a safe and enclosed space, although its cover is smaller compared to some competitors. Notably, the Silver Cross Jet 5 is compatible with the Silver Cross Dream i-Size car seat and various other car seat brands (which can be attached with adapters), adding to its versatility as a travel system.

The extra-large UPF50+ canopy is made with an extra flip-out visor for added protection. And if you’re looking for a stroller with plenty of airflow, this one is it with a back flap with a magnetic piece for adjustable ventilation and large peekaboo window with a magnetic flap to close.

The only downside of this compact stroller is its small storage basket, which can only hold contents of up to 5kg and can only be accessed from the front. Not ideal if you need to carry a lot on the go.

Another cabin-approved stroller option from the Silver Cross family is the Silver Cross Clic. Weighing a mere 5.9kg,the Clic features a slick one-hand fold, a pull-out shoulder strap, and pavement-gliding wheels for easy navigation. It accommodates newborns to toddlers with a lie-flat seat for naps and effortlessly folds to a self-standing position for convenient carrying, leaving your hands free.

Read next: Best baby carrier backpacks for travel

Tested by parent tester, Sophie: Read our full Joolz Aer² review

The Joolz Aer² builds on the hugely popular Joolz Aer and Aer+, refining its travel-friendly design while staying true to what made it a favourite for parents on the move. Winning a Red Dot Award 2025 for design, this updated version is even better tailored for smooth cabin-approved travel.

Its signature one-second fold is now neater and more compact, collapsing into a self-standing shape that slides easily into most overhead compartments. Weighing 6.5kg, it’s still ultra-light for carry-on travel, but Joolz has cleverly added features that make it more than just an “airport stroller.” A true lie-flat recline for newborns or daytime sleeps, a sturdy built-in leg rest, bigger wheels, a roomier storage basket and a spacious seat make it far more comfortable for growing toddlers, offering them support on longer days out as well as quick naps on the go.

What really sets the Aer² apart is innovation: it’s the first stroller with a fully foldable carrycot approved for overnight sleep, making it practical from newborn stage right through to toddlerhood.

And as with all Joolz designs, sustainability plays a role too, with eco-conscious fabrics, recyclable packaging, and a 10-year transferable warranty.

Yes, the price point is on the higher end, but for families wanting a cabin-approved stroller that doesn’t compromise on comfort, versatility, or style, the Aer² stands out as one of the best options available.

Tested by dad of two, Matt: Read our full Cybex Libelle review

The Cybex Libelle earns its spot as the lightest cabin-approved stroller, accepted by most airlines on our list, tipping the scales at a mere 5.9kg. It boasts one of the most compact folds in the market, achieved effortlessly by pushing in two buttons on the handlebars.

The stroller itself is remarkably streamlined, with a spacious seat – but it only reclines to 30 to 40 degrees, making it less desirable for longer naps. Nevertheless, the wide padded straps ensure extra comfort during use and we like the convenient one-pull harness for secure and quick fastening. While the small umbrella-style adjustable leg rest adds a touch of flexibility, the lack of a dedicated footrest may be a drawback for some users.

The front wheels come equipped with suspension in the forks, contributing to a smoother ride, particularly suitable for city walks and theme parks like Disney World or Disneyland Paris. However, due to its smaller wheels, the stroller may feel a bit flimsy on rougher, undulating terrain. The storage basket is also a bit of a letdown only capable of carrying up to 4kg but is wide enough to hold some basic essentials.

A bonus, however, is that this compact stroller comes with a cleverly designed weatherproof travel bag and sturdy shoulder strap that sits comfortably without being cumbersome. We think this thoughtful addition enhances the stroller's portability and convenience.

Read next: Best car sunshades for babies

Tested by Mumsnet editor and parent, Laura: Read our full Bugaboo Butterfly 2 review

The Bugaboo Butterfly 2 is a smart, cabin-approved stroller that’s had a thoughtful upgrade and it shows. It takes everything that worked about the original Butterfly and smooths out the edges to make life even easier for parents on the go.

One of the most welcome updates is the fully lie-flat recline, which means it’s now suitable from birth, not just from six months. As Mumsnet Editor and parent-tester Laura puts it, “The lie-flat recline makes it genuinely suitable from birth now, which is a big plus.” You also still have the option to use it with a baby car seat, which adds extra flexibility.

The Butterfly 2 car seat adapters are compatible with Bugaboo car seats, as well as infant car seats from Cybex, Britax, and BeSafe, making it easy to create a simple travel system when you're out and about with a newborn.

For a compact stroller, the Butterfly 2 is surprisingly roomy. Laura noticed this straight away: “Despite its compact frame, it feels really roomy, especially for toddlers with longer legs.” The seat is generous, the underseat basket is spacious, and there’s even an extra storage pocket on the back of the seat for easy-to-grab essentials.

Bugaboo has also made some practical tweaks, like larger wheels, which help it handle uneven pavements and different surfaces more smoothly. Plus, the frame is now made using a mix of bio-based and recycled materials, helping to cut its CO₂ footprint by 37% compared to the original.

And folding it? A breeze. “The Butterfly 2 folds down so easily,” says Laura, and better yet, it’s cabin-approved for most airlines - ideal if you’re travelling light but don’t want to compromise on quality.

The only real downside is that the seat is forward-facing only, which might not suit parents who prefer to keep newborns facing them for longer. But for a stroller designed for travel, this is fairly standard—and the other features more than make up for it.

Tested by parent-tester, Rachel: Read our full Cosatto Yo! stroller review

The Cosatto Yo! is the ultimate lightweight, cabin-approved stroller designed for parents on the go. Weighing only 7kg and IATA compliant, this stroller is perfect for travel. Its intuitive one-handed fold makes it incredibly convenient for busy parents, while the large 8kg storage basket ensures you have plenty of space for all your essentials including your changing bag and snacks.

Available in four appealing designs for kids, the Yo! combines style and practicality. The stroller is fully reclinable, providing comfort for your child whilst on the go and features eco-friendly fabric along with a durable vegan leather handlebar and bumper bar caps, highlighting its thoughtful design.

While the sun canopy could be improved to offer more coverage – especially on full sun days, the ample storage space, easy-to-use brake, and smooth manoeuvrability make the Cosatto Yo! a reliable and enjoyable choice for any family.

Despite being fully reclinable, it could benefit from more ergonomic features such as flexible positioning and an inverted seat area to help babies feel more secure. However, with a four-year warranty, you can trust in its durability and performance.

Tested by Mumsnet editor and mum of one, Tina: Read our full UPPAbaby Minu V3 stroller review

Compact, lightweight, and cleverly designed, the UPPAbaby Minu V3 is one of the most practical cabin-approved strollers on the market. Weighing just 7.5kg and only 45.7cm wide, it’s easy to manoeuvre through narrow shop aisles, onto public transport, and fits in most airline overhead lockers.

Despite its smaller wheels, the Minu V3 feels sturdy and durable, with smooth, responsive steering that makes daily errands and tight city pavements easier to manage. Another practical bonus is that it folds down really quickly in one swift motion and can be slung over your shoulder using the built-in carry strap – ideal when juggling children, bags or groceries.

There’s also an extra-large storage basket (11kg capacity), a generous UPF50+ sun canopy with breathable mesh panels for nap-friendly ventilation, and a lie-flat seat with a no-rethread harness that’s incredibly easy to adjust. Because the seat is newborn-ready, there’s no need to buy a separate bassinet – making the Minu a more cost-effective option than it might first appear.

The main trade-offs? It’s at the pricier end of the market, the handlebar isn’t adjustable, and the seat is only parent-facing if used with a compatible car seat and universal car seat adapters (sold separately). Still, for travel and daily life, the Minu V3’s smart, space-saving design offers genuine practicality and long-term value.

Tested by mum, Charlotte: Read our full Maxi-Cosi Lara² review

Tested by mum Charlotte on a family trip to Italy, the Maxi-Cosi Lara² earns its place as our best value cabin-approved stroller. It’s lightweight at 6.4kg, making it easy to carry and store, plus it’s IATA-approved, meaning it folds compactly enough to meet most airline cabin baggage requirements, and crucially it doesn’t feel flimsy, something that can’t always be said for very lightweight or umbrella strollers.

At under £200, the Lara² offers strong value for money. Charlotte was pleasantly surprised by how sturdy it felt when travelling on public transport and pushing it over cobbled streets, gravel paths and uneven pavements, conditions that quickly highlight weaknesses in cheaper travel strollers. Despite its lightweight frame, the EVA, puncture-proof wheels and suspension coped well, and the stroller steered easily through tight spaces like train aisles, cafés and busy streets.

Practical features also help justify the price. The Lara² has a large sun canopy that provides good coverage in brighter weather, as well as two storage baskets - one under the seat and another near the wheelbase, which are useful for carrying day-to-day essentials or a small changing bag. It also folds down compactly for car travel, making it easy to move between flights, trains and car journeys and we like that it's travel-system ready when used with Maxi-Cosi car seat adaptors.

From a parent comfort and safety point of view, the padded handlebar is comfortable to push, even on longer walks, although it isn’t adjustable - something taller parents may notice. The five-point harness felt secure and reassuring during testing, and Charlotte liked that it wouldn’t be easy for a child to release on their own, although the clasp buttons were on the stiff side and couldn’t be operated one-handed.