If you plan to travel by plane, having a stroller that fits in the overhead compartment is a must. Having strollers that fit in overhead bin means you can glide right in with your infant, toddler, or child – and that will save you so much hassle (no annoying gate-checking or dealing with baggage reclaim!).
Unfortunately, though, there aren’t a whole lot of strollers that fit in overhead bin; they’re simply too large. That’s why it’s super important to find a stroller that you’re sure will fit in the overhead bin – and we’re here to help.
As a mom of two who loves to travel, I’ve dealt with my fair share of airplane-approved strollers, and I’ve made a list of the top five strollers that fit in overhead bin.
My Top Picks for the Best Strollers that Fit in Overhead Bin
What are we waiting for? Let’s dive into my top five picks for the absolute best travel stroller options that fit inside the overhead bin.
#1: Ergobaby Metro+ Compact Baby Stroller (Best Value)
Dimensions: 34.25″ L x 17.32″ W x 37.8″ H inches
Weight: 17 pounds
Weight limit: 50 pounds
Folded Dimensions: 20″ x 10” inches
Finding the right stroller for airplane travel is essential – trust me, I get it. I have been there done that. The last thing you want to do is make the wrong choice. Well, if you’re completely stuck on which travel stroller to pick from, I’ll tell you this much: you can’t go wrong with the Ergobaby Metro+ Compact Baby Stroller. Let me tell you why this stroller has been deemed the “best value” and will work for, well, just about everyone!
Multi-Positioned Reclinable Seat
Some kiddos love to take a nap while strolling around. Others want to sit up and see the world. And some want to do both in a matter of ten seconds! Luckily, the Ergobaby Metro+ Compact Baby Stroller can accommodate all these needs. The seat has a flat recline for your sleeping baby or can stand upright to ensure maximum comfort for your kiddo! (Psst, it also comes with an adjustable leg rest for when your little bundle of joy starts getting bigger!)
Comfortable Ride for Newborns
Finding a travel stroller that can fit in overhead bins and accommodate newborns can be tricky – but this stroller makes it possible! This stroller has a “Newborn Nest Mode” feature that will keep younger babies safe, secure, and cozy. It is compatible with an infant car seat, although the infant car seat adapter is sold separately.
Plenty of Storage Space
Again, most compact stroller options suitable for plane travel don’t have enough storage space, but that’s not the case here! With a decent-sized storage basket underneath and a bit more storage on the back, you’ll find plenty of space to stash all your must-haves.
Drawbacks
Some parents said the “one-handed fold mechanism” was oversold and is almost impossible without using both hands. Also, it’s not as lightweight as other compact strollers on the market, coming in at 17 pounds.
Wrapping Up
This is a well-rounded stroller that will fit in an airplane overhead bin. It is suitable for newborns (with or without car seats) and toddlers up to 50 pounds. It comes with a surprisingly large amount of storage space, an overhead canopy for safety while strolling, and an adjustable handlebar, ensuring there are lots of features for parents to enjoy. Overall, this is a top pick to consider!
#2: Bugaboo Butterfly - 1 Second Fold Ultra-Compact Stroller (Best Premium)
Dimensions: 37″ L x 18″ W x 41″ H inches
Weight: 16.1 pounds
Weight limit: 50 pounds
Folded Dimensions: 23 L x 45 W x 54 H centimeters
Are you looking to buy the best of the best – even if it costs a little more? If money’s no issue and you want to enjoy all the features a compact travel stroller can offer, look no further than the Bugaboo Butterfly – 1 Second Fold Ultra-Compact Stroller. Here’s why I made it the “premium” pick for parents planning to fly on an airplane:
One-Second Fold and Unfold
Many of these travel strollers claim to have a one-hand fold mechanism for ease of use. Unfortunately, a lot of parents have struggled with these one-hand fold designs, claiming they need at least two hands. Well, the Bugaboo Butterfly is different. This tried-and-true one-handed folding mechanism works like a charm – and in a single second, to boot. It’s every parent’s dream come true!
Multiple Carrying Modes
Weighing at 16.1 pounds, the Bugaboo Butterfly is pretty lightweight. However, the unique thing about this travel stroller is that it offers multiple carrying modes. For example, it comes with a handy carrying strap (shoulder strap). Simply throw the carrying strap over your shoulder and book it for your flight. If you don’t want to use the shoulder strap, use the leg rest instead!
Extra Comfort For Children
Compact strollers for airplane travel are a lot like umbrella strollers – they don’t focus on comfort but moreso having a lightweight frame and being accessible to fold/unfold. Well, the Bugaboo Butterfly is different. They want your child to have a comfy ride, which is why the seat is very spacious, complete with a high backrest and padded inlay.
Top-Notch Extendable Canopy
Unfortunately, compact strollers are also not known for their impressive canopies – but that’s not the case for this travel stroller! The canopy is fully extendable, ensuring your child has rain cover and protection from harmful UV rays. Needless to say, the Bugaboo Butterfly has the best canopy on this list!
Travel Certified
A true nightmare would be arriving at the airport, assuming your stroller will fit in the overhead bin, only to find it’s deemed a “regular stroller” that must be checked and found at baggage reclaim. Put those worries to rest with this stroller! It is travel-certified and IATA-compatible for peace of mind.
Smoothest Ride Possible
The final must-know feature of the Bugaboo Butterfly is that it comes with an advanced suspension, ensuring a smooth ride – even on rough terrain. That said, you can easily glide around the airport (and other smooth surfaces) when needed, and when you’ve reached your destination, you can rely on the front wheel suspension to see you through the rest of your travels.
Drawbacks
Honestly, it was difficult to find anything negative regarding this travel stroller. Customers love it! The only potential drawback is that the seat does not recline fully flat. Some also thought the button to fold/unfold was a bit tricky and required more elbow grease than desired.
Wrapping Up
Overall, this stroller gets a 9/10 rating and is undoubtedly the top choice on this list for air travel (with a price tag to prove it!). It comes with a front wheel suspension, a handy shoulder strap, one-handed fold and unfold, and a very cozy seat for your child. What more could you want?
#3: Dream On Me Lightweight and Compact Coast Rider Stroller (Best for Older Babies/Toddlers)
Dimensions: 28″ L x 14″ W x 37.5″ H inches
Weight: 13.5 pounds
Weight limit: 45 pounds
Folded Dimensions: 21.6″ L x 16″ W x 8.2″ H inches
Older babies (over six months) and toddlers don’t have the same needs as newborns. They can sit up and see the world around them, which opens up more convenient opportunities for parents who want to bring their stroller as carry-on luggage. The Dream On Me Lightweight and Compact Coast Rider Stroller stands out for older babies and kids. Here’s why.
Three Different Ways to Ride
The top feature of this lightweight travel stroller is the fact that it can be reconfigured in three ways. The “Stroller” option is best for younger babies who still need a bit of support. The “Rider” configuration is suitable for young kids who want to be pushed around. Finally, the “Scooter” choice is explicitly that – an actual scooter where kids can scoot themselves wherever they need to go.
13.5 Pounds with a One-Hand Fold
Some parents may shy away from a stroller that can be adjusted into three different configurations, fearing it’s a challenge to work with. But it couldn’t be easier! Not only is it easy to achieve the various functions, but this 13.5-pound stroller also offers a simple one-hand fold. You’ll certainly appreciate the ease of use and compact fold when you’re trying to board an airplane!
Impeccable Safety
Although this travel stroller is one of the smallest and more “basic” choices without all the fancy bells and whistles, it has surprisingly top-tier safety. This travel stroller comes with a five-point harness (for specific modes) and has won several notable awards, including the 2020 JPMA Innovation Awards, 2020 National Parenting Product Awards, and 2020 Baby Maternity Magazine Product of the Year Award. It also exceeds CPSC and ASTM standards. That gives parents peace of mind!
Convenience and Comfort for Parents
Again, this travel stroller isn’t known for being extravagant. But it has a few excellent and convenient features for parents. For example, the adjustable handlebars ensure that everyone can be comfortable in the “driver seat,” and the waterproof fabric ensures clean-up is a breeze – and as parents, we know how important that is. Kids aren’t always the cleanest!
Drawbacks
One of the major drawbacks is that the seat is not adjustable (no reclining seat), and it has a slight angle that not all children will enjoy. The five-point harness is also more challenging to adjust than other travel strollers. Some struggled with the one-handed fold and needed two hands, but that wasn’t the case for all. There is also no storage basket or other type of storage.
Wrapping Up
The Dream On Me Lightweight and Compact Coast Rider Stroller is a very compact stroller that will easily fit in your overhead bins. It’s budget-friendly, easy to use, and has three configurations to suit your growing child. However, remember that this stroller is designed for six months and up.
#4: Munchkin® Sparrow™ Ultra Compact Lightweight Travel Stroller for Babies & Toddlers (Best Low Cost)
Dimensions: 28″ L x 18.5″ W x 39″ H inches
Weight: 12.8 pounds
Weight limit: 55 pounds
Folded Dimensions: 15″ L x 14″ W x 6.25″ H inches
Seeing some of the prices of these luxurious travel stroller options may be overwhelming. I understand – whether you’re a new parent or this is your fifth go around, raising kids is not cheap. But don’t worry – if you’re on a limited budget, it doesn’t mean you can’t get your hands on a top-notch travel stroller that will fit in the overhead. The Munchkin® Sparrow™ Ultra Compact Lightweight Travel Stroller for Babies & Toddlers proves that fantastic features don’t have to cost an arm and a leg.
Most Lightweight Travel Stroller
The Munchkin Sparrow Ultra Compact Lightweight Travell Stroller is, without a doubt, the most lightweight option in the travel stroller category. This impressive cabin-size stroller comes in at less than 13 pounds (12.8, to be specific), which means you’ll have no problem tossing it into the overhead bin when the time comes.
Smallest Compact Fold
The extremely low weight isn’t the only thing for these lightweight strollers to brag about, though. They also offer the most compact fold possible – at 15″ L x 14″ W x 6.25″ H inches. That said, there should be little to no fear about these lightweight strollers fitting inside the overhead compartments. (And, of course, it’s an easy-to-use one-handed fold to make things even better!)
Comes with a Travel Bag
This travel stroller wants to make it easier than ever to bring along for the journey. That said, it comes with a handy travel bag that keeps your stroller safe and secure and means the most easy carrying of your life. Simply hold it in your hand as if carrying a grocery bag or other lightweight item and bring it on board. It couldn’t be easier!
Drawbacks
Yes, this compact stroller has plenty to love – however, it has some drawbacks, just like the other travel strollers on this list. The biggest con is that the sun visor has been deemed a “joke” as it’s far too small to offer protection. It’s also shorter and does not have adjustable handlebars, which means less comfort for taller people.
Wrapping Up
All in all, if you’re looking for an extremely lightweight stroller that comes with a handy carry bag, the Munchkin Sparrow is a top contender. It’s more lightweight and compact than other strollers, ensuring you’ll have no problem fitting it into the overhead lockers.
#5: Jovial Portable Folding Lightweight Baby Stroller (Best for Pulling, Not Carrying)
Dimensions: 39.8” L x 18.7” W x 32.3” H inches
Weight: 16.3 pounds
Weight limit: 35 pounds
Folded Dimensions: 18.9’’ L x 10.6’’ W x 22.0’’ H inches
When it comes to travel strollers for airplane travel, it might seem like they’re all one and the same. If you want a stroller with a few completely unique features you won’t find on many other strollers on the market, you might be impressed with the Jovial Portable Folding Lightweight Baby Stroller. Here’s why I added it to my top five:
Carry Or Pull
The most distinctive feature of the Jovial Portable Folding Lightweight Baby Stroller is that it can be carried in two ways: either pulled or carried. That’s right! This fabulous stroller has a practical handle that allows you to bring the stroller anywhere. If you don’t want to drag the stroller behind you, then you can fold it all the way down and carry it using the travel bag.
Great for Newborns and Up
Travel strollers are known for being geared toward those six months and up, which makes it challenging for those with newborns to find something that can accommodate their baby. Well, this wonderful stroller is acceptable for newborns thanks to the adjustable seat and can achieve an entirely flat recline – “bassinet-style.” No car seats required!
Three Brakes
Every parent cares about the safety of their child. And that’s where this stroller stands out once more. While most travel strollers come with one or two brakes, the Jovial Portable Folding Lightweight Baby Stroller has an impressive set of three!
Drawbacks
This stroller has a few must-know drawbacks. For one, a few people said it was too big for the overhead, so it’s important to double-check with the airline before purchasing. Other issues included: no cup holder for mom or baby, the pull bar must be removed to use the travel bag, and some people had problems turning.
Wrapping Up
The Jovial Portable Folding Lightweight Baby Stroller stands out as a stroller that can easily accommodate even the youngest babies (no car seat necessary). Aside from that, it’s also versatile in terms of carrying. You can hold it like a piece of hand luggage or use the included bar to push/pull.
How I Determined the Best Strollers that Fit in the Overhead Compartment
At this point, you might be wondering how I ended up with my top five list of the absolute best travel stroller options for airplane travel. Well, I considered four different things.
For one, I checked to ensure that real people could fit the stroller inside the overhead. I wanted to hear actual, real-life stories of parents being successful.
Secondly, I looked at the folded dimensions of the stroller. After all, if a stroller is excessively large – especially when folded – there’s no way it will fit in the overhead.
From there, I looked over the features to ensure it was a good stroller for travel. For example, things like comfort for parents and babies and added features like carrying straps or storage bins were taken into consideration.
Last but not least, I read over the reviews – the good and the bad – to ensure I was picking only the best travel strollers on the market. And trust me – there were quite a few that didn’t make the cut based solely on parent reviews.
What Should You Look for in a Stroller that Fit in the Overhead Bin?
As a parent myself, I know how tricky it can be to choose baby items. You want to make sure you’re making the right choice for you and your child, which is overwhelming. Things get even more chaotic when you throw air travel into the mix.
Well, moms, dads, and caregivers, I want to make the process of buying a stroller as easy as possible for you. That’s why I have created this handy list of the top things to look for when buying a stroller for overhead compartments:
Size:
Of course, the number one thing to look at is the stroller’s size. Luckily, all my choices should fit in the overhead without problems. However, it’s critical to double-check with your airline before buying. After all, every airline has its own set of rules and regulations. A stroller suitable for one airline may not be suitable for another.
Weight:
You don’t want to worry about spending the entire flight with a backache. That said, the second most important thing to look at is the stroller’s weight. Thankfully, these strollers are all relatively lightweight (under 20 pounds). But some are lighter than others. For instance, the Munchkin® Sparrow™ Ultra Compact Lightweight Stroller has the lowest weight possible at 12.8 pounds, which many parents will appreciate. It’s almost as light as your diaper bag!
Folding Mechanism:
Yes, it’s true – every stroller on this list touts itself as having a “one-handed fold mechanism.” That’s great and everything, but how easy is it really? If you double-check my “drawbacks” section, you’ll notice that some of these strollers are trickier than you might think. However, even those slightly more challenging are still much easier than “regular strollers” out there, so don’t panic.
Comfort for Parent and Child:
Although this stroller will likely be reserved for travel, it doesn’t mean you should nix comfort entirely. Yes, these aren’t the most luxurious strollers on the market designed for premium coziness and convenience. That doesn’t mean they can’t have some perks, though. For example, many are designed with a reclinable seat and an adjustable foot rest for kids, or adjustable handlebars and extra storage space for parents.
Suitability for Your Child’s Age:
You don’t want to buy a stroller only to find out it won’t accommodate the age of your child. This is especially true if you have a newborn baby. Ensure the stroller you’re buying isn’t geared toward babies that can hold themselves upright. There are a couple on this list that can accommodate newborns with and without a car seat, but not all of them do. If you have an older kiddo, such as a toddler, ensure the stroller can handle their weight.
Storage and Safety:
I’ll be honest – most strollers designed for travel aren’t going to wow you with their impressive storage space. However, some of these strollers have a decent amount, considering how small they are when folded up. Another thing to look at is added safety features like five-point harnesses and brakes.
Price:
Lastly, let’s talk about the price! I don’t want you to go into debt purchasing a stroller for your flight. Please double-check the price of the stroller and make sure it’s within budget. You should spend more money on your vacation rather than a stroller. At the same time, you should definitely find a stroller that satisfies all your needs – just don’t go over budget!
Frequently Asked Questions
You’ve got questions – and I’ve got answers. I found a few of the most commonly asked questions on the web and answered them here. (Basically, I want you to leave here knowing everything there is to know about travel strollers for air travel with no lingering questions!) Let’s dive in, shall we?
Can you put a stroller in the overhead compartment?
The best way to answer this question is yes, but not always. Every airline will have its own set of rules and regulations. While most airlines will accept strollers in the overhead, specific weight and size requirements must be adhered to. If your stroller doesn’t make the cut, you won’t be able to put it in the overhead. The best thing to do is to call the airline ahead of time and get the specific folded dimensions and weight requirements for strollers to come on board the flight.
Can Nuna stroller fit in overhead bin?
Although many parents were excited to see the release of the Nuna TRIV, Nuna’s most lightweight stroller, unfortunately, it does not fit in the overhead bins. It’s too large. That said, you will need to choose another option for airplane travel, such as one of the strollers on this list.
What size fits in overhead bins?
It’s challenging to say the exact size that fits in the overhead, as every airline is different. The only way to know the precise size that will fit is to contact the airline.
Can I take a full size stroller on an airplane?
It is possible to take a full-size stroller on an airplane, but it won’t be able to go in the overhead. In order to take a full-size stroller on an airplane, it will need to go through the gate check with the rest of your luggage that won’t be in the overhead.
Can I have baby in stroller while passing through TSA?
You will not be able to have your baby in the stroller while passing through TSA. You will need to take them out and carry them through the metal detectors.
Verdict: Your Best Strollers that Fit in the Overhead Bin
OK, listen – if you didn’t want to read the extensive reviews of these strollers and you’re in a rush, don’t worry – I have made it easy for you! Here’s a quick breakdown of the best strollers to take on board an airplane:
If you want the best value for money, pick the Ergobaby Metro+ Compact Baby Stroller. With a comfortable reclinable seat and lots of storage, this is one of the comfiest and most convenient options. It’s also newborn-friendly, with or without a car seat.
The top-of-the-line (and most expensive) choice is the Bugaboo Butterfly - 1 Second Fold Ultra-Compact Stroller. With its one-second folding and unfolding capabilities, impressive seat and canopy for kiddos, smooth ride, and multiple carrying options, it’s no wonder why this is the premier option.
If you need a stroller for older babies and kiddos, pick the Dream On Me Lightweight and Compact Coast Rider Stroller. With three different ways to ride and awards for its impeccable safety, you can rest assured your child will have a fun and safe ride through the airport and beyond.
If you want to keep the spending under $200, pick the Munchkin® Sparrow™ Ultra Compact Lightweight Travel Stroller for Babies & Toddlers. Although less expensive, it comes with a wide range of perks such as having the smallest fold and lightest weight.
For those who’d rather pull than carry, the Jovial Portable Folding Lightweight Baby Stroller is an excellent choice. The useful bar allows you to pull this stroller through the airport with ease, although you can still remove the bar and carry it if desired. It’s also newborn-friendly without a car seat needed.
When it comes to buying a stroller for your upcoming travel by plane, it’s best to take the time to read over these top five picks to find the one that truly suits you and your child’s needs. And while parents have successfully used these strollers in the overhead, I highly suggest calling the airline to find the specific dimensions and weight requirements for carry-on strollers. As I’ve mentioned, every airline is different, and the rules change constantly. I want you to be confident that you’re buying a stroller that you can bring on board, and that’s the best way to do it. Other than that, enjoy these fabulous strollers and your trip. Have a happy and safe flight!
