3 of Consumer Reports’ Best Lightweight Strollers You Can Buy

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If you constantly need to lift the steering wheel in and out of your car, switching to a lightweight steering wheel can make the experience much easier on your body. Compared to other popular traditional controllers, lightweight controllers can weigh 10 to 15 pounds less. This low weight makes them perfect for frequent travel, whether you’re going to the airport every weekend or have a lot of work to do during the week.

In addition, many lightweight strollers can be folded with one hand, maneuvered easily into narrow spaces, and stowed away in small spaces such as a walk-in closet, the bridge of a compact car, or overhead space on an airplane. There isn’t a ton of built-in storage, but most parents who need a lightweight controller aren’t trying to weigh it down with tons of toys, snacks, and other items. There’s plenty of room for essentials, like a few must-have gadgets for traveling with small children, and that’s enough.

Consumer Reports has tested and reviewed many different strollers over the years. Among the hundreds of options, three stand out as the best lightweight controllers, each weighing less than 17 pounds and earning many positive ratings online. Without further ado, here is the first option for a lightweight controller.

If you’re looking for a 15-pound controller, look no further than the Nuna TRVL LX model. Without the canopy and armrest, which add an additional 2.4 pounds, the TRVL LX weighs just 14.6 pounds. When unfolded, Nuna’s TRVL LX measures 32 x 21 x 45.5 inches. Folding it down cuts the length and height by about half, giving it a new dimension of 14.25 x 21 x 27 inches. At that size, it can fit in most cars, but may not fit in the overhead bin on an airplane.

This lightweight $600 controller can be folded with one hand, is self-contained when folded, and comes with a bag to keep it clean while on the go. It also features a number of functional features, such as a water-repellent canopy, a UPF 50+-rated canopy that expands and has mesh panels, front and rear suspension technology, a self-steering MagneTech belt, solid airless tires, and a shopping basket on the floor to stash your valuables.

To accommodate children of different sizes, parents can customize the recline adjustment with one hand, extend or shorten the calf support, and rotate or completely remove the armrest. The Nuna TRVL LX is suitable for babies up to 50 kg and newborns who use the stroller mode, with a close seating position. Or, parents can create a sturdy travel system by attaching any of the brand’s PIPA infant car seats.

The Ergobaby Metro 3 is one of the most affordable strollers you can get your hands on. It’s $399 full price, but if you don’t need the slider right away, it’s usually on sale for around $299. Without accessories and unfolded, the Metro 3 weighs 16.7 pounds and measures 35 x 17.3 x 42.9 inches. Folded, the Metro 3 has a compact size of 9 x 17.3 x 22 inches, which means it can easily fit in most car seats and the overhead compartment of most airplanes, according to IATA guidelines. That said, it’s always wise to check your airline’s baggage requirements before flying.

By sliding the button, squeezing the handle, and pushing the handle down at the same time, the Metro 3 can be folded with one hand in seconds. It can be opened with one hand, too. In addition to being easy to fold and highly maneuverable, this lightweight stroller includes puncture-resistant tires, an adjustable handle, an ergonomic wheelchair, a four-wheel suspension system, a storage basket under the seat, a pocket on the back of the seat, and an expandable waterproof canopy with UV protection.

For newborns, Metro 3 can be used in Newborn Nest mode, which turns the seat into a close seat, or compatible car seats by Cybex, Nuna, Maxi-Cosi, Avionaut, Britax, and BeSafe, with an adapter (sold separately). For children up to 50 kilograms, the slide can be used in its traditional mode, with adjustment of the backrest and footrest as needed.

The $499 UPPAbaby Minu V3 stroller weighs 16.7 pounds, including only the frame and seat, and measures 34.5 x 18 x 41 inches when unfolded and fully set up. When folded, this controller squeezes into a compact size of 10 x 18 x 21.5 inches. It can be folded with one hand and complies with IATA guidelines for carry-on luggage sizes, meaning it can fit in the overhead compartment of most airlines, but it’s still best to check weight and size restrictions with your airline before flying.

Its lightweight design doesn’t stop the Minu V3 from coming packed with plenty of built-in features. It has all-wheel suspension to help make the ride smoother for your child, a large bottom basket that’s easy to reach and can hold up to 20 pounds, and a zip-out, expandable waterproof canopy, with a mesh peekaboo window, and offers UPF 50+ sun protection. It’s made of full-grain leather and aluminum, and currently comes in six color schemes with different fabric, leather, and frame options.

Your baby can use the UPPAbaby Minu V3 from birth up to 50 kilograms. For newborns, the brand recommends using the controller in stroller mode or pairing it with an adapter and one of the newborn car seats, such as Mesa or Aria, or choose car seats made by Maxi-Cosi, Nuna, and Cybex.