Baby Stroller Reviews – What to Look For in a Baby Stroller

When deciding what stroller to buy for your baby, there are many things to consider. Your lifestyle, how often you plan to use it, how much space you have for storage and your budget are all important factors.

Your family’s needs and preferences will change over time, too. For example, as your baby grows into a toddler, you’ll likely take longer strolls that require more supplies such as snacks, clothing and toys. You might also decide to visit museums, aquariums and other kid-friendly venues that are further away from your home. These extended excursions will require more storage for all the extras you’ll be bringing along.

As you start looking for a stroller to meet your changing needs, it’s helpful to understand what features are standard and what options are available. For example, some strollers come with a parent tray that includes a cup holder and space for your phone or keys while your child is buckled in the seat. Other strollers may not have a tray or include just one or two cup holders, which can be frustrating for parents who want to keep their hands free.

You should also consider the wheel size and type, which can impact maneuverability and if the stroller is suited for different types of terrain. For example, a stroller with smaller plastic wheels might not be able to handle rough roads or off-road conditions as well as a model with larger foam-filled rubber tires. Jogging strollers generally have bigger wheels, which make them more responsive for running or navigating uneven terrain.

A good baby stroller will have a deep seat recline that can accommodate a newborn and an easy-to-use mechanism for reclining the seat. It should have a large under-seat storage bin that’s accessible from the seat and a large canopy that offers adequate coverage for your child. It should be easy to maneuver and fold, as well.

Some strollers have a universal car seat adapter that makes it compatible with most major infant car seats without the need for additional adapters. This feature can be a huge benefit for families who plan to travel or live in multiple places. It can be less expensive than buying a separate stroller and car seat and is more convenient than swapping out adapters when switching between cars.

One of our top picks is the Uppababy Vista v2, which is an all-in-one, do-everything stroller that will grow with your baby and be suitable for long expeditions as they get older. Strategist writer Lauren Ro used this stroller with her two boys and appreciated its adjustability, ease of use and ability to adapt as her kids grow.

If you’re not ready to invest in a Vista, the Nuna Trvl is another good option for families who want an adjustable handlebar, a giant under-seat storage bin and a customizable canopy. This stroller moves well on flat surfaces and is compact enough to fit into tight spaces, but it can be a bit clunky and stiff on bumpy streets.