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12 best lightweight strollers and buggies: compact strollers for travel with babies and toddlers

After in-depth research and parent-led testing, we reveal the UK's best lightweight strollers, buggies, prams and pushchairs for school runs, holidays, car journeys and urban exploring.

By Gemma Wilcock & Laura Westerman | Last updated Mar 18, 2024

8 of the best lightweight strollers

Finding the best lightweight buggy can be tricky business, especially when there are a whole host of features to consider. Umbrella or concertina fold? Four wheels or three?

While lightweight strollers may not be an immediate choice for many parents with children under the age of two, buggies (otherwise known as strollers or pushchairs) are great alternatives to traditional prams for newborns and traditional travel systems.

They’re compact, easy to manoeuvre and ideal for travel, whether that's on public transport or on family holidays abroad, and they make getting around big cities or urban areas a breeze. Their light frames and simple folding mechanisms also make them brilliant for the school run. But which lightweight stroller is the best?

How we tested the best lightweight strollers

We’ve researched the UK’s top lightweight buggies, consulted parents on the Mumsnet forums for their best buys, analysed in-depth lab test results from the likes of Which?, and comparatively tested all the strollers on this list with our team of parent testers and their children (aged one to four) to bring you a comprehensive guide to the best lightweight strollers you can buy right now.

If you're looking for more of a robust pram for everyday use, we've rounded up the best pushchairs, the best travel systems, the best umbrella prams, the best all-terrain prams, the best double strollers and the best running buggies for babies and toddlers. And on the accessories front, we've also got the lowdown on the best pram toys, the best buggy boards and the best changing bags.

Best lightweight strollers at a glance

  • Best overall lightweight buggy: Babyzen YOYO² | Buy now

  • Best budget lightweight buggy: Ickle Bubba Aries | Buy now

  • Best lightweight buggy for newborns: Bugaboo Dragonfly | Buy now

  • Best lightweight buggy for toddlers: Didofy Aster 2 | Buy now

  • Best lightweight buggy for easy fold: Joolz Aer+ | Buy now

  • Best compact lightweight buggy: Cybex Coya | Buy now

  • Best lightweight buggy for travel and city life: Ergobaby Metro+ Stroller | Buy now

  • Best lightweight buggy for frequent flyers: Cybex Libelle | Buy now

  • Best lightweight buggy for longevity: Baby Jogger City Tour 2 | Buy now

  • Best lightweight buggy for rough terrain: Silver Cross Pop | Buy now

  • Best travel system-compatible lightweight buggy: Cybex Mios | Buy now

  • Best versatile lightweight buggy: Silver Cross Reflex | Buy now

1
Best overall lightweight buggy
What we like
  • Well-cushioned and roomy

  • Generous storage basket

  • Easy to collapse and carry (cover bag and carry strap included)

  • Meets the cabin luggage dimensions of most airlines

  • Manoeuvres very well in tight spaces

What we don't like
  • White wheels show up dirt easily

  • Rain cover sold separately

  • Requires some assembly

  • Expensive

Key specs

RRP: £450 (chassis and colour pack only) | Age range: Birth (with newborn pack) to four years | Max weight: 22kg | Weight: 6.2kg | Parent-facing option: Yes, if you have a newborn pack, otherwise it’s world-facing only | Travel system/car seat compatible: Yes | Folded size: 52 x 44 x 18cm

What Mumsnet users say
ShyTown · Tried & Tested
Love the YOYO. Mine has lasted two children over four years, many many flights and is still going strong. I used to live in a third floor walk-up apartment, and fly long haul on my own with the baby fairly regularly and I honestly don’t think I could have managed without it!
See Post
Our verdict

Tested by parents: Read our full Babyzen YOYO review

The Babyzen YOYO² is a top-performing lightweight buggy that can be used all the way from birth with Babyzen's newborn pack. It's the ideal buggy if you travel often, whether at home or abroad, but it functions just as well as an everyday stroller too.

An upgrade to the ever-popular Babyzen YOYO+, the Babyzen YOYO² boasts improved suspension, a higher weight limit, a new faux leather handlebar and compatibility with even more infant car seats than its predecessor.

It’s lightweight and ultra compact with great adaptability. Better yet, the higher-than-average upper weight limit means that you can enjoy long years of use from this hard-working buggy.

All in all, it's a good alternative to a travel system for parents looking for a compact solution right from the get-go. Just don't forget to buy a rain cover.

Read next: The best car seats for children

2
Best budget lightweight buggy

Ickle Bubba Aries Auto-Fold Stroller

What we like
  • Auto-fold mechanism that folds the stroller down in seconds

  • Ultra-lightweight

  • Decent amount of storage

  • Lie-flat recline

  • Comes with added extras, including rain cover and bumper bar

What we don't like
  • Fabrics aren’t machine-washable

  • Non-adjustable handlebar

  • Topples when changing bag hung on handlebar (without child in seat)

Key specs

RRP: From £159 | Age range: Birth to around five years old | Max weight: 22kg | Weight: 6.1kg | Parent-facing option: No | Travel system/car seat compatible: No | Folded size with bumper bar: 46 x 22 x 79cm

What Mumsnet users say
Claire, parent tester · Tried & Tested
I've had many strollers over the years, and this is by far the easiest one I've ever folded and lifted into the car boot.
See Post
Our verdict

Tested by Mumsnet: Read our full Ickle Bubba Aries review

The brand-new Ickle Bubba Aries Auto-Fold Stroller is the ideal urban buggy. It’s ultra-lightweight at just 6.1kg, with a small footprint and auto-fold mechanism that makes it one of the easiest buggies out there to fold, whether you regularly use public transport or tend to travel by car.

This handy feature means the stroller folds down automatically at the press of two buttons, collapsing down in a matter of seconds - a game-changer for busy parents on the go. 

The Aries is also very affordable, with a number of different accessories included depending on which version you buy - something you don’t find with most lightweight buggies. The standard Aries stroller comes with a rain cover and bumper bar, while the Aries Max also includes a foot warmer and cup holder. The Ickle Bubba Aries Prime goes even further and comes with a cup holder, carry bag and buggy organiser alongside the rain cover and foot warmer.

Our tester and mum of two Claire says, “It's great value for money with lots of extras, including a pocket on the back of the hood for additional storage - a huge bonus! The seat is a decent size for my one-year-old and my two-and-a-half year old found it comfortable too.”

3
Best lightweight buggy for newborns
What we like
  • Carrycot can be collapsed with the buggy

  • Generous amount of storage space

  • Rear storage pocket can be detached and hung on the handlebar

  • Huge extendable sun canopy with extra extension for sunny days

  • Sliding, easy-to-adjust five-point harness

What we don't like
  • Stiff and clunky recline

  • Fold takes time to master

  • No rain cover included

Key specs

RRP: £695 (seat and chassis only); £945 for bundle | Age range: Birth age four | Max weight: 22kg | Weight: 7.9-10.4kg | Parent-facing option: Yes | Travel system/car seat compatible: Yes | Folded size: One-piece self-standing fold with seat 36 x 52 x 90cm; one-piece self-standing fold with carrycot 32 x 52 x 90cm

What Mumsnet users say
Laura, parent tester · Tried & Tested
My daughter enjoys a ride in the Bugaboo Dragonfly and has fallen asleep in the toddler seat multiple times. She likes gripping onto the bumper bar when on the move, and the number of recline options on the seat means she always sits or lays comfortably.
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Our verdict

Tested by parents: Read our full Bugaboo Dragonfly review

Released in June 2023, the Bugaboo Dragonfly has been designed with city life in mind. Compatible with a variety of infant car seats (when used with the appropriate adapters) and the Bugaboo Dragonfly bassinet, this stroller can be used as a travel system so that your newborn has somewhere safe and comfortable to rest while you’re out and about.

From birth, the ergonomic seat is very supportive and has extra ventilation for regulating your child’s body temperature. There are a number of recline angles, including an upright position and lie-flat, and it can be used in parent-facing mode during the earlier months and then world-facing when your baby gets older.

The compact frame easily wheels through small or tight spaces, and the stroller can be folded down with just one hand, although it took our parent tester, Laura, some time to master. It’s petite enough to fit into a medium-sized car boot (although you may have to remove the parcel shelf in smaller cars) and can be left freestanding once folded on public transport.

With an extendable handle and swivel wheels, the Dragonfly is a comfortable ride that steers well, although it does struggle going up kerbs. The brake is very easy to engage - one of the easiest we've come across in fact - and the five-point harness is simple to adjust. Parent tester, Laura, says, "One of the best features of this pram is that the twist straps can be adjusted without the need for rethreading, the same as on other Bugaboo prams like the Bugaboo Fox 5. You simply slide the harness straps up and down to the desired position as your baby grows."

The two real highlights of this buggy though is the 10kg of storage, plus a detachable rear pocket that can be hung on the handlebars like a changing bag, and the fact that the Dragonfly can be folded down with (yes, WITH) the carrycot still attached. A game-changer in the newborn days if you ask us.

4
Best lightweight buggy for toddlers
What we like
  • 3kg storage basket

  • MagicFold technology allows it to be folded with one hand

  • Includes a rain cover, footmuff and cup holder

  • Can be carried on most airlines as hand luggage

  • Flip-flop-friendly brake

What we don't like
  • Cup holder feels flimsy and can be reached by child in the seat

  • Brake bar may get in the way for parents with a longer stride

  • Stitching in quilting holds dirt and crumbs and mud left some stains on the fabric

  • Wheels didn’t perform as well on uneven ground

  • Footrest gets in the way when carrying the folded buggy

Key specs

RRP: £299 | Age range: Birth to four years | Max weight: 22kg | Weight: 6.2kg | Parent-facing option: No | Travel system/car seat compatible: Yes | Folded size: 55 x 47 x 25cm

What Mumsnet users say
Beccy, parent tester · Tried & Tested
If I had known about the Aster 2 before our first child, I would have bypassed our bulky travel system and opted for this ultra-compact pushchair instead.
See Post
Our verdict

Tested by parents: Read our full Didofy Aster 2 review

Thanks to its quilted seat fabric, leatherette handlebar and a choice of frame colours, the Didofy Aster 2 is a practical lightweight stroller that will also turn heads.

Parents can choose from three stylish fabric colours - olive green, grey and black - and a black or bronze stroller frame. The included footmuff and leatherette bumper bar both match the stroller’s stylish design.

The Aster 2’s MagicFold feature swiftly pops the stroller up or down with a press of a button. There’s a handle and shoulder strap for carrying the buggy, but our tester did find that the footrest got in the way and the lock came loose quite easily.

The seat is spacious with cosy quilted padding for extra comfort, an adjustable footrest and a multi-recline for a child up to approximately age four. It can also be used with a car seat.

The Astor 2 didn’t perform as well as other buggies in our topple tests - the instructions warn not to let children lean sideways out of the pram and, during testing, our toddler was able to make it lean to one side. But the swivel, puncture-proof wheels give a smooth comfortable ride for daily life (although they can be harder to manoeuvre on uneven ground). The pushchair whizzed through doorways no problem, but it did sometimes struggle to turn in small spaces.

Didofy has designed the brake to be flip-flop-friendly and it's very easy to engage and holds the pram securely, but our tester did feel the bar was set quite far back so may get in the way for parents with a longer stride.

If you plan to use the Aster 2 for your holiday, it’s small enough when folded to take on most airlines as hand luggage and there are handy extras you can buy, such as a storage bag and a mosquito net should you need to. The expanding UPF 50 sun canopy gives good coverage, but you’ll need to cover your child’s legs on sunnier days.

Read next: The best car sunshades to buy

5
Best lightweight buggy for easy fold
What we like
  • Impressive storage

  • Superb one-handed fold and unfold

  • Airy design for hot weather

  • Extra long stroller seat – ideal for taller children

What we don't like
  • Not suitable from birth

  • Recline mechanism is a bit awkward

  • Pricey

  • Leg rest and bumper bar aren’t included

Key specs

RRP: £429 | Age range: 6 months to three or four years | Max weight: 18kg | Weight: 6kg | Parent-facing option: Yes, if you use a carrycot, but otherwise world-facing | Travel system/car seat compatible: No | Folded size: 53.5 x 45 x 21.5cm

What Mumsnet users say
Somebunny · Recommended
Look at the Joolz Aer if you're willing/able to spend a bit more. It's the quickest, easiest one-handed fold, fits in an overhead compartment and weighs something like [6kg]. Very comfy with a good recline as well
See Post
Our verdict

Tested by parents: Read our full Joolz Aer review

Folding doesn’t get easier than with the Joolz Aer, which is easily collapsible with one hand. Throw in a stylish design and a generous storage capacity and this buggy is a must-have for anyone looking to downsize at six months plus.

We also love the Aer’s padding and extra-long seat. This is a comfortable ride across the age range, ideal for reluctant walkers (although not suitable from birth), and it manages to achieve all of this while also folding up surprisingly small.

Our tester found the Joolz Aer to be the most convenient to fold out of all the lightweight strollers she tested.

Read next: The best baby carriers backpacks, according to parents

6
Best compact lightweight buggy
What we like
  • Compact fold

  • Travel system-compatible 

  • Hand luggage size for plane travel

  • Small footprint when unfolded

  • Generously sized storage basket and extra storage pocket

  • Harness is easy to adjust and requires no rethreading

What we don't like
  • Forward-facing only unless used with a car seat

  • Seat isn't fully upright in its highest position

  • Jerky recline

  • No bumper bar

  • Not as sturdy on uneven ground as other travel strollers

Key specs

RRP: £540 | Age range: Birth to around four years old | Max weight: 22kg | Weight: 6.6kg | Parent-facing option: No | Travel system/car seat compatible: Yes | Folded size: 18 x 44 x 52cm

What Mumsnet users say
Laura, parent tester · Tried & Tested
It’s an exceptionally good buggy if you live in the city, with a tight turning circle and small footprint that makes manoeuvrability much easier in busy areas as well as through narrow doorways and on buses and trains.
See Post
Our verdict

Tested by parents: Read our full Cybex Coya review

The Cybex Coya, released in 2023, is a compact and comfortable stroller. Versatile and reliable, it's the ideal buggy for both day-to-day use and travel thanks to it small footprint and cabin-approved size for flights.

Our tester, Laura, liked the extendable sun canopy, which offers decent coverage in sunny weather, as well as the generously sized storage basket - one of the largest we've seen on such a compact buggy. The fact that the Coya is car seat-compatible only adds to its charm.

At just 6.6kg, its frame is exceptionally lightweight, so it will suit you well if you live in the city and regularly use public transport. It has an integrated carry strap for carrying the stroller over your shoulder when needed.

Our tester Laura says, "What lets the Coya down is its recline, which is jerky when the seat is put into a lie-flat position for naps. [...] I have the similarly designed Babyzen Yoyo2 at home and, while I think the Coya beats the Yoyo on its larger storage basket capacity and sunshade, it also feels much less sturdy."

7
Best lightweight buggy for travel and city life
What we like
  • Ergonomic bucket seat for padded support

  • Infinite recline options

  • All-terrain wheels

  • Compact fold fits in most airline overhead compartments

  • Quick assembly

What we don't like
  • Sun canopy doesn’t provide full coverage

  • Seat is only world-facing

  • One-handed fold takes a bit of practice to master

  • Storage basket is shallow so won’t hold larger items

Key specs

RRP: £299 | Age range: Birth to four years | Max weight: 22kg | Weight: 7.8kg | Parent-facing option: No | Travel system/car seat compatible: Yes | Folded size: 54 x 25 x 44cm

What Mumsnet users say
EisforElephants · Tried & Tested
Absolutely LOVE LOVE LOVE our Ergobaby Metro+. And it's got the AGR seal of approval so designed to be good for bad backs!
See Post
Our verdict

Tested by Mumsnet: Read our Ergobaby Metro+ review

The Ergobaby Metro+ folds down to a super compact size making it easy to use on public transport and to squeeze into car boots and most overhead cabin compartments.

It’s an update on the Ergobaby Metro, with upgrades including harness covers, a vegan leather handlebar which can be adjusted for different heights and 16% more storage – although the instructions warn not to load more than 2.2kg in the basket. It's also quite shallow so it's not big enough to fit a changing bag inside.

The ergonomic, padded seat was loved by our tester’s two-year-old who slept soundly when out and about, but the near-flat recline, adjustable leg rest and built-in newborn flaps also allow you to use the Metro+ from day one. Plus, it's car seat-compatible (with adapters).

The PU rubber tyres, spring suspension and extendable handlebar make the stroller a dream to manoeuvre around small spaces and over rough terrain, with a one-handed fold that’s perfect for days when you’re frequently in and out of the car.

The Metro+ only comes with a rain cover, but there’s a host of reasonably priced accessories – including different coloured sun canopies – that you can buy for adding your own touches.

Related: The best buggy boards to buy

Tested by Mumsnet: Read our Ergobaby Metro+ review

8
Best lightweight buggy for frequent flyers
What we like
  • Folds down easily to the size of a small suitcase

  • Stands up when folded with handles on one side

  • Infinite recline

  • No assembly needed

  • Five colours available

  • Cabin-approved for flights

What we don't like
  • Wheels struggled on rough terrain, such as grass

  • The three-point harness slipped when our toddler was bouncing around in the seat

  • Doesn’t come with a belly bar

  • Thicker substances like mud settled into the material if not wiped quickly

  • Can’t fit a changing bag in the basket

Key specs

RRP: £290 | Age range: 6 months to four years - can only be used from birth with a compatible infant car seat | Max weight: 22kg | Weight: 5.9kg | Parent-facing option: No | Travel system/car seat compatible: Yes | Folded size: 32 x 20 x 48cm

What Mumsnet users say
BananaPalm · Tried & Tested
We bought Cybex Libelle precisely for plane travel - it's the only one I could find that would both last till my DS is about four years old AND would also fold to cabin bag size so that we can take it with us on the plane instead of checking it in.
See Post
Our verdict

Tested by Mumsnet: Read our full Cybex Libelle review

If you’re jetting off on holiday and want a stroller you can take on the plane, the Cybex Libelle folds down to the size of a small carry-on suitcase.

Cybex recommends double checking the measurements with your airline before flying, but this buggy is so compact and lightweight (one of the lightest on our list, in fact) that it stands up easily on its own and has handles on the side for carrying, whether that’s on public transport or for getting it in and out of a car boot.

The Libelle quickly folds and unfolds with buttons and locks that are white so you can easily identify which parts to press. You can also buy adapters to use this buggy with any Cybex or gb car seat.

The pram pushes well but the handlebars are straighter than on other pushchairs and are angled upwards so they may take a bit of getting used to. Due to its compact nature, the wheels are small so they don’t perform quite as well on uneven ground as they do on pavements, but they’re more than good enough for city life and holidays. The brake is effective but only holds the back wheels.

Although the basket can hold 5kg, it’s worth noting that we found it difficult to fit a changing bag inside. This means the bag may need to go on the handlebar, which does make the pushchair topple when it's empty.

While the pushchair does come with a rain cover, there’s no footmuff or bumper bar included (these can be bought separately). But the Cybex Libelle is a great option for parents who want to move around with minimal fuss. A bonus? It comes already pre-assembled.

Read next: The best car seats for toddlers

9
Best lightweight buggy for longevity
What we like
  • Greater age range than most lightweight strollers and it's more than affordable considering its longevity

  • Folds up small one-handed

  • Reclines fully

  • Carry bag included

What we don't like
  • Fiddly harness

  • Bit of a bumpy ride

  • Rain cover not included

  • Can’t stand on its own when folded

Key specs

RRP: £284 | Age range: Birth to four years | Max weight: 22kg | Weight: 6.5kg | Parent-facing option: No, unless used with car seat or carrycot | Travel system/car seat compatible: Yes | Folded size: 59.5 x 49.5 x 19cm

What Mumsnet users say
Katia2511 · Recommended
I bought the City Tour 2 and I love it. It folds small and compactly but not as small as the Yoyo. And you can also buy a bar separately for it if you want to. It’s very comfortable to sleep in too - the foot flap can be lifted. I still use it for my nearly three-year-old and he still fits in comfortably
See Post
Our verdict

Tested by parents: Read our full Baby Jogger City Tour 2 review (double stroller)

Often touted as a great travel option, the Baby Jogger City Tour 2 works equally well as a day-to-day buggy. But don’t be fooled by the name. We think it’s a brilliant pushchair wherever you live.

We were impressed with the size of this buggy, considering how light it is. With a weight limit that makes it suitable for kids up to around five years, you could get quite a lot of use out of it both on your travels and day-to-day.

Good news too – it's an upgrade on the original Baby Jogger City Tour, which means it's now compatible with a carrycot and baby car seat.

Read next: The best double buggies

10
Best lightweight buggy for rough terrain
What we like
  • Classy design with a cushioned leatherette bumper bar

  • Quick assembly

  • Durable material that doesn’t mark easily

  • One-motion fold

  • 5kg storage basket

What we don't like
  • Bulky when folded down - struggled to fit in Audi A1 boot

  • Five-point harness feels flimsy

  • Stroller toppled when changing bag was on the handlebar and the pram was empty

  • No parent-facing option

  • Handlebars are angled so aren’t particularly comfortable to push

Key specs

RRP: £245 | Age range: Birth to four years | Max weight: 22kg | Weight: 7.2kg | Parent-facing option: No | Travel system/car seat compatible: No | Folded size: 105 x 31 x 35cm

What Mumsnet users say
bounty007 · Recommended
I love mine, it is so lightweight and a fab town buggy. Used it from when my DS was 3 and half months old... travelled to NZ with it.
See Post
GozerTheGozerian · Tried & Tested
We bought a secondhand Pop as a runaround stroller and it has been great. Light, easy to manoeuvre and folds down.
See Post
Our verdict

As the name suggests, the Silver Cross Pop has been designed to quickly unfold for life on the go.

Our tester’s two-year-old slept comfortably in the padded, supportive seat which has an adjustable calf support for use from birth - although it doesn’t quite lie flat enough for younger babies.

And while the infinite recline mechanism is meant to be one-handed, it does feel clunky which isn’t ideal if you have a sleeping baby. The seat does, however, have a lovely, cushioned leatherette bumper bar to give parents extra peace of mind.

Where this pram excels though is in everyday life. The storage basket is a decent size and can hold a changing bag, a change of clothes and a shopping bag. The stroller can be folded down quickly and swiftly for popping to the shops or rushing out on the school run, but you may find it long and a bit bulky if you’re short on space at home or in your car boot. Make sure to check the size of your boot before buying.

The four sets of double wheels are lockable so perform surprisingly well on all terrain - whether that’s going up and down curbs, squeezing through shop doors or being pushed over grass and gravel at the park.

Overall, the Silver Cross Pop is durable, easy to clean and looks classy too (choose from four stylish colourways). It currently retails at under £200 which is a great price for such a high-performing buggy.

Read next: The best bike trailers to buy

11
Best travel-system-compatible lightweight buggy
What we like
  • Genuinely suitable from birth (some buggies better from six months)

  • Manages well on all types of terrain

  • One-handed fold and recline

  • Adjustable handlebar height

  • Lots of accessories available including foot-muffs, cup holders and changing bags

What we don't like
  • On the heavier side for a lightweight buggy

  • Hefty price tag (carrycot also sold separately)

  • Folding mechanism may take some practice

Key specs

RRP: £680 | Age range: Birth to fours years | Max weight: 22kg | Weight: 9.9kg | Parent-facing option: Yes | Travel system/car seat compatible: Yes | Folded size: 65 x 50 x 30cm

What Mumsnet users say
Bex000 · Tried & Tested
We have the Cybex Mios which is a great pram and we wish we had brought it with the travel system at the start rather than stupidly shelling out on a Silver Cross. It folds easily, is compact so fits easily in the car but has reasonable suspension so fine on country paths as well as round town.
See Post
Our verdict

Tested by parents: Read our full Cybex Mios review

The Cybex Mios straddles two pushchair categories as a fully-functioning travel system with the nimbleness and foldability of a lightweight pushchair. We were particularly impressed by how easily it switches between parent- and world-facing.

Even without adding a carrycot, the Mios offers a cosy fit for newborns with the leg support lifting to create an enclosed pram, similar to a carrycot. At the same time, it also manages to be roomy enough for a three-year-old with lots of space to grow.

Despite being on the heavier side, this buggy is still a big performer across the age range.

Read next: The best baby carriers to buy

12
Best versatile lightweight buggy

Silver Cross Reflex

What we like
  • Great storage

  • Easy to fold and travel-friendly

  • Comes with a head-hugger for newborns

  • Full suspension effortlessly handles rough terrain and tricky curbs

  • Extendable hood

What we don't like
  • Only compatible with Silver Cross infant car seats

  • Heavier than most of the prams in our round-up

  • Umbrella fold makes it bulky when folded down

Key specs

RRP: £325 | Age range: Birth to around five years old | Max weight: 25kg | Weight: 8.5kg | Parent-facing option: No | Travel system/car seat compatible: Yes | Folded size: 110 x 31 x 40cm

What Mumsnet users say
voxnihili · Tried & Tested
I have the Reflex - it’s a really nice pushchair. The seat sits completely bolt upright (my DD hates being slumped). I find the basket quite roomy too - can fit my changing bag in easily. I tried a Pop as well and found the Reflex much nicer to push.
See Post
Our verdict

Tested by parents: Read our full Silver Cross Reflex review

Thanks to its clever design, full suspension and travel system compatibility, the Silver Cross Reflex is a stroller that offers great versatility and value for money.

To start, it’s super comfortable. The seat is moulded to the shape of your baby’s back to provide extra support and allow air to flow through, which is great for keeping them cool on warmer days. The Reflex can be used from birth and comes with a padded seat cover and head support for young babies. There are also car seat adaptors included for use with a Silver Cross Simplicity car seat.

The stroller comes with a host of extras which goes some way to justifying its price. The UPF 50+ extendable hood is a decent size, the 5kg shopping basket is more than big enough for everyday essentials, and the rain cover keeps your child completely dry. There’s also a bumper bar which can be folded down with the buggy.

The simple umbrella fold is very effective and it locks into place so the buggy can be carried around using the handle on the side. It’s a dream to push too. Much like the Silver Cross Pop, the Reflex handles even rough terrain and tricky curbs very well.

How we chose the best lightweight buggies

  • Over 30 models tested by parent testers

  • Hundreds of strollers reviewed by Mumsnet parents on our forums

  • 12 buggies recommended as best buys

Recommendations from real parents

As the UK's biggest network of parents, many of our buggy recommendations came from Mumsnet users who’d already put the buggies to the test in their everyday lives. After scouring the Mumsnet forums, we ended up with a longlist of more than 25 tried-and-tested products, which was then narrowed down to a final shortlist for additional testing.

We vetted each buggy, noting which were given Best Buys on trusted review sites such as Which?, only considering strollers with overwhelmingly positive consumer feedback.

In-depth testing with parent testers

We tested all the buggies on this list with parent testers, who used each pushchair over the course of at least three months. They each filled out our comprehensive testing score sheet, scoring the buggies on key areas such as safety, assembly, ease of use, aesthetics, ease of cleaning and value for money.

Expert guidance

We also spoke to buggy expert Emma Redding, founder and director of BuggyFit, who sees a huge range of buggies through her work and regularly fields questions about the right stroller for both parent and child. She was able to advise us on what most parents are looking for when choosing a lightweight buggy.

The Royal Society for Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) further rounded out our research by providing essential safety information on buying and using a buggy.

What is a stroller?

A stroller, also known as a buggy, is a style of pushchair or pram that's lightweight, compact and typically used with older babies or toddlers.

Easy to transport and compact for easy storage, types range from the simplest of umbrella strollers to sturdier, more luxurious models.

Lightweight buggies often take up less room than full-sized travel systems or more traditional prams and, unlike the latter options, don’t always have fully-reclining, newborn-friendly seats.

Genuine birth to toddler options are increasingly hitting the market though (complete with a full recline and parent-facing seat), aimed at parents looking for a compact travel solution as soon as their baby is born. We’ve included some options like these in our testing.

Why use a lightweight stroller?

Parents often look to strollers when they're ready to move on from bulkier travel systems, seeking a less complicated solution for grandparents or something less fussy to take on holiday.

Buggies can also be useful for public transport if you live in the city, ideal for family holidays when you’re trying to minimise luggage, and a lifesaver for those moments when your toddler just wants to rest their tired legs.

Can a lightweight stroller be used as an everyday stroller or just for travel purposes?

A lightweight stroller can certainly be used as an everyday buggy. While they are designed with travel in mind, they are also practical for daily use due to their compact size and easy manoeuvrability.

How long can lightweight buggies be used for?

Usually, lightweight strollers are suitable from six months and can extend to either three-and-a-half years (15kg) or even four or five (25kg).

However, some models extend even beyond this age limit, accommodating children as old as six. Always check the weight limit on the buggy you’re considering before you buy.

How easy is it to fold and store a lightweight stroller?

Most lightweight strollers are designed for easy folding and storage. They often feature one-hand folding mechanisms, making them convenient to fold up and store in small spaces, such as car boots or airplane overhead compartments.

What’s the difference between a lightweight buggy and a travel system?

A travel system, sometimes called a pram, is the more traditional and bulky method of transporting a baby around.

Travel systems tend to be the go-to for parents of newborn babies because they're compatible with carrycots and baby car seats – the latter of which allows parents to transfer their baby from car to pushchair and vice versa with minimum hassle.

Unlike travel systems, lightweight buggies aren't always compatible with carrycots or car seats, and smaller wheels might rule out off-roading. However, they tend to be lighter, more compact and a whole lot cheaper than travel systems, which can actually make them a more attractive option to parents once their baby is a bit older.

How much does a good quality lightweight stroller typically cost?

Prices vary from as little as £30 to over £500, so there really are options to suit every budget.

How much you choose to spend may depend on how often and where you plan to use it. Solid options can be found on either end of the spectrum though, so a lot will come down to personal preference.

If you're planning to use your stroller every day, investing in one with decent suspension, easy collapsibility and a good-sized storage basket will be well worth the pennies. On the other hand, if you think you'll only use it occasionally or as a spare, a budget-friendly basic option might be the way to go.

Many affordable buggies do a surprisingly good job and should come with the essential rain cover and shopping basket too.

child in buggy

How to choose a lightweight buggy

A few different factors will determine which stroller is the right fit for you. Be sure to clarify your criteria before you start looking to avoid being overwhelmed by choice or railroaded into buying something that won’t meet your needs.

  • Safety: Make sure the buggy feels sturdy enough to withstand daily life. It’s not recommended to hang a changing bag on the handlebar but if you think you’re going to need to, check whether it will hold the weight and not topple easily. All pushchairs in the UK should carry a safety label confirming compliance with BS EN 1888. If you’re buying an older model, it’s worth checking that the pram hasn’t been recalled for safety reasons.

  • Harness: Look at the harness - does it feel secure? A five-point harness is best for keeping your child safe. Make sure there are no gaps for little hands to get caught in and that any accessories, such as a cup holder, are out of reach.

  • Brake: Test out the brakes to ensure it's effective and can be easily applied using a variety of footwear.

  • Location: For a start, where are you most likely to use it? Will you be taking it on city pavements, hopping on and off buses, or do you need something that will fold up small into your car boot and potentially be taken into a muddy field? Many parents reach for a lightweight buggy when preparing to go on holiday so you may be looking for something that can fit inside the locker of a plane as hand luggage. If purchasing in-store, be sure to mention where your buggy will be getting most of its use.

  • Size of wheels and manoeuvrability: When thinking about location, you'll also need to consider the terrain you'll be using the buggy on, and in turn the size of the wheels and how easy it'll be to use, whether you're needing something for city or country life. Bigger wheels tend to be better for uneven surfaces due to the suspension.

  • Age range: Is the buggy suitable from birth? If it is, it will need to fully recline and you may want to make sure it's padded and sturdy enough for a tiny baby while holding any bags you’ll be taking along with you. Whether a buggy fully reclines or not can also be a dealbreaker with older babies and toddlers, especially if it'll be a safe place for your child to sleep when out and about. Additionally, what’s the upper end of the age range like? Do you want a buggy that'll last beyond early toddlerhood?

  • Maximum weight of seat: The maximum weight of the seat will also let you know the age the buggy can be used until. If you're wanting an option with longevity, bear in mind you'll need a larger weight capacity as your child grows.

  • Comfort: You’ll also want to consider the height of the handlebars, particularly if you’re tall or if the buggy will be shared by adults of varying heights. Are the handlebars long enough? Is there potential to adjust the handlebars if not? This could have a huge impact on your comfort, which you may not realise until the damage to your back has been done.

  • The way the seat faces: If you have a newborn you may want a buggy with a parent-facing orientation so the baby is facing you, whereas a world-facing stroller will likely be better for toddlers. While most tend to be forward-facing, some include the option to change the orientation to parent-facing with the addition of a car seat or carrycot, but you'll need to check these are compatible with the buggy you're buying and will allow you to have your child in a parent-facing position.

  • Weight: Weight can vary wildly between strollers, with some even coming with handles for carrying around while others require a lot more effort. Whether you’re lifting it into a car boot or taking it up a flight of stairs, you’ll want to be sure that your model is an easily manageable weight for you.

  • Foldability: Buggies conventionally fold in half with the activation of a switch at the back. However, many models now fold to an even more compact shape and size. You’ll want to consider the size of your boot or anywhere else the buggy is likely to be stored as well as how easy is it to fold. Can it be folded one-handed when on public transport, for instance?

  • Storage space: Strollers generally have smaller storage baskets than travel systems, but the size of the basket can vary from model to model. You’ll want to consider how much room there is in the basket, how accessible it is with a child sitting in the chair and how stable the stroller is if a bag were to be hung on the handles – this sometimes goes against manufacturers’ instructions, but is a criteria that many parents consider.

  • Calf support: You may want some extra cushioning around the calf area to make it more comfortable for your child as an extra feature.

  • Accessories: The accessories a lightweight stroller comes with can also vary. While most come with a rain cover, shopping basket and sun canopy, you’ll want to look at how generous these are and keep an eye for any extras. Are there pockets? Can the wheels be upgraded? Are any other accessories available for purchase? And does it offer good value for money overall? Bear in mind that lightweight strollers generally lack standard pushchair features like peekaboo windows.

What are the key features to look for in a lightweight stroller?

When choosing a lightweight stroller, look for key features such as a compact fold, lightweight materials, easy manoeuvrability, adjustable seat positions, a sturdy frame and a comfortable harness system. These key features will ensure convenience and comfort while traveling with your little one.

What is the most lightweight pram or buggy?

The lightest stroller we tested was the Cybex Libelle at a feather-light 5.9kg. It also measured up as the smallest once folded up, at just 32 x 20 x 48cm.

What is the maximum weight limit for a lightweight stroller?

The maximum weight limit for a lightweight stroller typically ranges from 22kg to 25kg, which is around age four or five. It's important to check the specific weight limit of the stroller you are wnating to buy, as it can vary depending on the brand and model.

What is the best lightweight stroller for travel?

The best lightweight travel stroller is the Babyzen YOYO2. It weighs only 6.2kg and can be folded easily with just one hand. It also meets most airline carry-on size restrictions, making it perfect for hassle-free travel with your baby or toddler.

How real-life comparative testing makes Mumsnet Reviews unique

To make sure that all the buggies were put through their paces in the same everyday situations, we tasked our parent testers, Matt, Beccy, Claire and Laura, to rigorously test each buggy. With toddlers and preschoolers ranging from age one to four, they were able to get out and about with each of the strollers to see which ones were built to tackle everyday life with ease.

Our testers spent three months testing all the buggies on this list - more than 200 hours in total. They assessed each product on a variety of key criteria including safety and stability, assembly, day-to-day use, cleanliness, aesthetics and value for money.

This entailed looking at everything from how easily the buggy toppled over, how much storage the basket held, how quickly and easily it could be folded down, and how the recline and brake performed. He also assessed the quality of any accessories included, such as a rain cover and footmuff.

Our testers also looked at how comfortable their children was in each buggy. They spent around 30 hours with each stroller, testing how well it coped with bags of shopping, whether it was suitable for muddy walks to the park, how easily it fit into the car boot for the school run and how well it managed rougher terrain.

They then made detailed notes on each product, scoring them on how well they performed in each area. When the final scores were in, the products that performed the best were included in our round-up.

About the authors

Gemma Wilcock is a freelance writer and mum of two. She has 15 years of experience working for national magazines and online publications, and has been researching and writing about baby and child products for Mumsnet for over six years - reviewing everything from buggies to baby bouncers.

As a busy mum of two young children, now aged eight and six, she knows just how important first-hand parenting knowledge can be, and she draws on her own experiences when writing about baby essentials, toys, health, money and lifestyle. She has also written for Prima Baby, Woman’s Own and Bella.

Laura Westerman is an editor, writer and Deputy Head of Editorial Content at Mumsnet. With over seven years' experience as a full-time editor, five of which have been spent writing, commissioning and editing buggy product reviews and round-ups, Laura has a keen eye for what parents love and likes nothing more than putting together honest reviews to make parents' lives that little bit easier. 

In addition to her work as a writer and editor, she has also appeared in a number of baby product review videos for Mumsnet's YouTube channel. She is mum to a one-year-old.