Traveling with a pushchair can be more complicated than a new parent may think. Guardian columnist Rhiannon Lucy Cosslett explains how buying the Babyzen YoYo was life-changing for her, after having had to push heavy, cumbersome pushchairs up various local hills. Bulky pushchairs only made her feel exhausted and downtrodden, with city streets feeling like an army assault course to be navigated.
Cosslett concluded that the design of pushchairs significantly matters when traveling — and many other parents would agree. In this article, we look through a few of the most important tips you need to know when traveling with a pushchair.
Storage spaces can make travel more convenient
Traveling light is always ideal to avoid fatigue when exploring various locations. With a baby, however, parents are often caught juggling multiple bags of baby gear and equipment — while simultaneously handling their child’s pushchair.
To ease the burden of parents, pushchairs with sizable carriers and storage space can help. The Bugaboo Donkey series is popular for that very reason, as their range allows parents to store a lot of items. The Donkey 5’s two storage areas combined can carry up to 22kg. With such a spacious undercarriage, these pushchairs can accommodate several bags containing your baby’s essentials, from diaper bags and a change of clothes to baby bottles and formula. This allows parents to enjoy the sights without the need to lug heavy bags on their backs.
Pushchairs should be convertible to full travel systems
Traveling may require parents to hop around using various cabs or car rides. A baby travel system in your pushchair can ensure the comfort of your child and keep them asleep, even while transferring them to and from the vehicle. Otherwise, a child whose REM cycle is constantly disturbed is guaranteed to be fussier for the rest of the trip.
A travel system guarantees an economical two-in-one stroller and convertible car seat as well. iCandy’s range of single pushchairs are equipped with car seat adaptors and an integrated Ride-on Board, which ensure a safe and convenient means of traveling with your toddler. The no-fuss buckle of the Peach series only requires one touch, and the accompanying carrycot of the Core series can additionally provide long-term comfort when staying out for long hours.
Adjustable canopies are necessary for sunny destinations
Sunny tropical destinations are great for the whole family to soak up their vitamin D. Yet, as we’ve previously explained in our post Keep Your Baby Safe from the External Environment, infants are more prone to sunburn and it is important to use a cover or sunscreen after about 15 minutes of exposure to the sun.
Choosing a pushchair with an adjustable canopy can help when exploring venues with plenty of sun. These often come with multi-position large viewing windows that allow infants to still view the outside world while safely sheltered under a water-repellent canopy. Some even include extra SPF for stronger protection from the sun.
Pushchairs can be included in a travel insurance policy
Allianz spokesperson Daniel Durazo explains that compact folding strollers are allowed on board in addition to carry-on bags by most airlines. However, some might require that you check “larger” strollers.
It is highly possible for pushchairs to be damaged while stored in cargo, especially if they are made of less durable material. Forbes Advisor explains that a travel insurance plan can be extremely convenient and economical in that case. These can reimburse you for the actual cash value, repair, or replacement up to your coverage limits so that you can easily find a replacement pushchair even while in a foreign land.
Being prepared with a quality pushchair can make the difference between a ruined holiday and a perfect vacation for your entire family to remember.
