How we tested the best lightweight strollers
Over 30 lightweight strollers independently tested by parent testers, as well as trusted journalists and the Mumsnet editorial team
Hundreds of strollers reviewed by Mumsnet parents on our forums
14 strollers recommended as best buys
Recommendations from real parents
As the UK's biggest network of parents, many of our 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 30 tried-and-tested lightweight strollers (under 8kg), 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 lightweight strollers on this list with parent testers, who used each model 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 and stability, performance, quality and durability, ease of use, ease of folding and unfolding, comfort, storage, and value for money.
We also looked at which travel strollers met the IATA cabin baggage size criteria (based on recommended carry‑on dimensions) and would be best suited to our cabin‑approved strollers buyers’ guide as these have the added benefit of fitting into a plane’s overhead compartment.
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 strollers or travel strollers - like the top 14 we've tested, 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 lightweight 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 absolutely be used as an everyday buggy. While these models are designed with travel in mind, their compact size, easy manoeuvrability and quick-fold mechanisms make them practical for daily use too, from school runs to city errands.
When it comes to travel, there are two types to consider. Some lightweight strollers are simply compact enough to fold and store easily in car boots, taxis or train compartments, ideal for families on the go. Others, often called travel prams or cabin-approved strollers, take convenience one step further.
A cabin-approved stroller meets International Air Transport Association (IATA) guidelines for hand luggage, meaning it’s small enough to fit in an overhead locker on most planes. That allows you to wheel your child right up to the aircraft door, fold it down, and store it on board without waiting for it at baggage reclaim.
If you travel frequently, investing in a lightweight travel pram or cabin-approved stroller can save time, reduce stress and make family journeys much smoother.
How long can lightweight strollers 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 stroller 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. They're usually sold in bundles and come with a host of accessories including car seat or carrycot adaptors.
Unlike travel systems, lightweight buggies aren't always compatible with carrycots or car seats, and smaller wheels might rule out off-roading, unlike all-terrain prams or pushchairs which tend to be more robust. 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. Our best lightweight stroller, the Stokke YOYO 3 for instance, costs around £650.
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.
How to choose a lightweight stroller
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 it 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 and lightweight strollers 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.
Brakes: 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:
Compact fold
Make sure it folds down small (ideally one-handed) so it’s easy to store, carry, and travel with.
Low overall weight
Check the exact weight in kilograms. Lighter models are easier to lift into car boots, take on public transport, or carry upstairs.
Easy manoeuvrability
Look for swivel wheels, smooth steering, and decent suspension so you can handle tight spaces and uneven pavements comfortably.
Adjustable seat positions
A multi-recline seat (and near-flat recline if you need it for younger babies) helps keep your little one comfortable on longer trips.
Sturdy frame
Even lightweight models should feel solid and stable, with a good maximum weight limit that will last through toddlerhood.
Secure 5-point harness
Ensures your baby or toddler is safely strapped in and comfortable, with easy-to-adjust straps.
Useful storage
A decent-sized basket or pockets make everyday outings easier — many lightweight models have smaller baskets, so check before buying.
Quality brakes
Reliable, easy-to-reach brakes add safety, especially on slopes or busy streets.
Comfort features
Padded seats, adjustable leg rest, and a good sun canopy make a big difference on longer days out.
Travel-friendly touches
Optional but helpful: carry strap, shoulder strap, raincover, travel bag, or compatibility with car seat adapters (if needed).
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 Stokke YOYO³. 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, we tasked our parent testers, Matt, Beccy, Claire, Laura, Connie, Adele, Jilly, Jane, Rachel and Hayley, to rigorously test each buggy. With toddlers and pre-schoolers 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 approximately three months testing the buggies - 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 minimum 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
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 three-year-old.
Tammy Jacks is a journalist and editor specialising in children’s wellbeing, safety and baby travel products. With more than 20 years’ experience in publishing, she has held key roles such as Managing Editor and Health & Beauty Editor for Woman & Home magazine in South Africa, and Assistant Editor for Living and Loving.
She has written extensively for Mumsnet, bringing a practical, safety-first approach to buying guides, particularly around strollers and pushchairs. Drawing on both professional expertise and life as a mum, Tammy has tested everything from everyday buggies to all-terrain prams and running buggies, using them in real-life settings as a keen runner and cyclist. Her reviews focus on what really matters to families: comfort, ease of use and safety.