10 of the best cabin-approved strollers you can take on a plane as hand luggage

Planning a trip with your baby or toddler? Choosing the best cabin-approved stroller can make travelling with young children much smoother from the moment you arrive at the airport. Being able to slip your sleeping baby or irritable toddler straight into your trusty lightweight pushchair throughout the airport and once you're off the plane is a game-changer.

• Jump to our list of the best cabin-approved strollers

Parents beware though: pushchairs described as "cabin-friendly" on manufacturers’ websites usually come with a disclaimer advising you to check with your airline. To save you the legwork, we’ve tested different types of pushchairs with compact folds and asked major airlines for their carry-on size requirements for travel buggies. We then compiled this list of the best travel strollers that can be stored in the overhead lockers of plane cabins. Do remember to always check with your airline before flying.

• Jump to the reviews of the best cabin-approved strollers
• Compare the best cabin-approved strollers

Best cabin-approved strollers at a glance

• Best for travelling with a newborn: Silver Cross Nia, £395 at John Lewis
• Best cabin-approved stroller for sleek design: Cybex Libelle, £289.95 £229 at Bundle Baby (Save £60.95 or 21%)
• Best cabin-approved stroller for newborns: Stokke YOYO3, £369 at Amazon
• Best cabin-approved stroller for sustainability: Joolz Aer2, £439 at Natural Baby Shower
• Best cabin-approved stroller for everyday use: Ergobaby Metro 3, £339 £319 at Kiddies Kingdom (Save £20 or 5%)
• Best cabin-approved stroller for superior pushing and steering: iCandy Pip, £429 at iCandy
• Best cabin-approved stroller for storage: Bugaboo Butterfly 2,£429 at Boots
• Best cabin-approved stroller to grow with your child: UPPAbaby MINU V3, £399.95 at Natural Baby Shower
• Best value cabin-approved stroller: Kinderkraft PILOT 2, £169 at Kiddies Kingdom
• Best cabin-approved stroller for luxury touches and colour choices: Cybex Orfeo, £319.95 £249.95 at Bundle Baby (Save £70 or 22%)

If you want to know more about what to look for when buying a travel buggy and more information about the major airlines and their policies, you’ll find everything you need at the bottom of our list.

• What to look for when buying a travel buggy
• Carry-on hand luggage size limits by airline
• Do all airlines allow buggies as hand luggage?

Best cabin-approved strollers for 2026

Silver Cross Nia, £395

Best for: Travelling with a newborn

Why we chose it: The Silver Cross Nia stands out for combining a compact, cabin-approved fold with a lie-flat seat, strong everyday usability and the rare option to remain cabin approved in both seat and carrycot mode.

The fact that it's the first stroller to be cabin-approved with the carrycot attached is worth the money in itself in my opinion — especially if you're travelling with a young baby. It feels well-made, sturdy, folds up and down with ease and overall was a dream to use.

What we like

• Aircraft cabin approved in both seat and carrycot mode
• Compact size with durable build quality
• Easy one-handed fold
• Smooth steering and impressive suspension for a travel stroller
• Lightweight yet sturdy at 7.3kg

What to keep in mind

• Premium price point
• Carrycot costs extra
• Seat is world-facing only
• Magnetic buckle can be fiddly

Silver Cross has designed the Nia for families who want a compact stroller that works just as well for travel as it does for everyday use. It’s small enough for overhead lockers and crowded public transport, but still feels sturdy, practical and easy to live with day to day.

What makes it stand out is its from-birth versatility. The Nia can fold with either the seat or carrycot attached while still being described as cabin approved, which is unusual in this category. The lie-flat seat, smooth handling and generous basket also help it feel more capable than many lightweight travel strollers, making it a strong choice for families who want one buggy that can do a bit of everything.

Read the full MadeForMums Silver Cross Nia pushchair review

Available from: John Lewis, Amazon, Silver Cross and Natural Baby Shower

Cybex Libelle, £269.95

Best for: Sleek design

Why we chose it: The Cybex Libelle earns its place for its ultra-compact fold, stylish look and impressive portability for travel and city breaks.

A fashionable, slick buggy for city life and travelling. While not the cheapest on the market, it is good value, modern and durable, likely to last many years. And when folded I can't quite believe how small this pushchair is! It feels like a very impressive magic trick.

What we like

• Lightweight at 5.9kg
• Extremely compact folded size
• Fast, intuitive fold
• Stylish design

What to keep in mind

• Only a shallow recline
• No footrest
• Short canopy
• Not ideal on hills or rougher ground

This buggy looks chic and has a clever, compact fold that helped it win a Red Dot product design award for its compact construction. Reviewer Sarah found it "perfectly suited to travel and staycations", praising its stylish feel and tiny folded footprint.

It isn’t the strongest option for naps or rougher routes, thanks to the shallow recline, lack of footrest and short canopy, but for families who want a sleek, lightweight stroller mainly for airports, pavements and city breaks, it makes a lot of sense.

Read the full MadeForMums Cybex Libelle pushchair review

Available from: Boots, Samuel Johnston, John Lewis, Bundle Baby

Stokke YOYO3, £399

Best for: Newborns

Why we chose it: The Stokke YOYO3 is a strong newborn travel option thanks to its compact size, light frame and parent-facing newborn setup.

The Stokke YOYO³ pushchair and 0+ newborn pack have become my go-to pram for my two-month-old son. It’s so small and lightweight that I’m confident taking it anywhere. The design is stylish but feels robust, and I like that it is parent-facing so I can keep an eye on my son while he’s napping.

What we like

• Suitable from birth
• Lightweight and cabin-friendly
• Parent-facing newborn option
• Smooth and easy to push
• Fabrics are easy to wipe clean

What to keep in mind

• Fold can feel fiddly
• May be a tighter fit for longer or larger babies

The latest update of the popular travel stroller, the Stokke YOYO3 keeps everything parents have long liked about the model while staying compact and easy to travel with. It’s especially appealing for families with a young baby, thanks to its newborn compatibility and the reassurance of a parent-facing setup.

Reviewer Daisy also found the fabrics practical and hardwearing in daily use, noting that they wiped down easily and coped well with rain. The fold isn’t the most intuitive on this list, but for parents who want a stylish, lightweight stroller from birth, the YOYO3 remains a very strong contender.

Read the full MadeForMums Stokke YOYO3 pushchair review

Available from: Amazon, Natural Baby Shower, John Lewis and Stokke

Joolz Aer2, £439

Best for: Sustainability

Why we chose it: The Joolz Aer2 blends a brilliantly easy fold with premium everyday usability and recycled materials, making it a standout for eco-conscious families.

Robust enough for everyday use and small enough for long-haul travel, I would recommend the Joolz Aer2 to parents looking for a lightweight, compact stroller that will take them through from baby to toddler. This pushchair would be especially well suited to for city dwellers, frequent travellers and public transport users.

What we like

• One of the easiest folds on this list
• Smooth, comfortable ride
• Lightweight and compact
• Long 10-year transferable warranty
• Fabrics made from recycled PET bottles

What to keep in mind

• Expensive
• Handlebar height cannot be adjusted
• No parent-facing option
• Carrycot costs extra for newborn use

The Joolz Aer has long been a favourite in the lightweight buggy world, and the Aer2 builds on that with a bigger basket, larger wheels and an integrated leg rest. It still has one of the most satisfying folds we’ve tested and feels polished in daily use as well as on trips.

If you don’t mind the premium price, it’s a brilliant all-rounder for travel and city life. It’s particularly appealing for parents who want longevity, thanks to the generous age range and impressive warranty.

Read the full MadeForMums Joolz Aer2 stroller review

Available from: Joolz, Natural Baby Shower, John Lewis and Mamas & Papas

Ergobaby Metro 3, £369.90

Best for: Everyday use

Why we chose it: The Ergobaby Metro 3 is one of the strongest picks for families who want one compact stroller for both daily errands and occasional trips.

Its practical one-handed fold makes it a great option for single-parent families, those with limited home storage, and those who travel frequently, as it is easily collapsed and can be stored in tight spaces at home, and on both public transport, including some airline overhead lockers, and small cars.

What we like

• Comfortable, plush seat
• Near-flat recline and Newborn Nest mode
• Adjustable handlebar and footrest
• Good storage for a compact stroller
• Slim, urban-friendly design

What to keep in mind

• Not designed for rough terrain
• Heavier than some rivals at 7.6kg

The Metro 3 builds on what we liked about the Metro+, with a slightly smaller fold, a more premium look and a genuinely comfortable seat. Reviewer Harriet found it especially useful in urban settings, praising its manoeuvrability through shops and narrow spaces.

For families who live in towns or cities and want something that can handle everyday life while still folding small enough for travel, this is a well-balanced option. It doesn’t love rougher terrain, but it feels thoughtfully designed and practical in the environments most parents will use it.

Available from: Amazon, Boots, Kiddies Kingdom and Natural Baby Shower

iCandy Pip, £429

Best for: Superior pushing and steering

Why we chose it: The iCandy Pip offers some of the smoothest steering and most confidence-inspiring handling we’ve seen in a lightweight, cabin-approved stroller.

The iCandy Pip is a great pushchair overall, with lots to offer families including a smooth ride, portability and style in one neat little package. It’s a great choice for urban parents needing a stroller that can weave through busy streets and hop on and off public transport, and for frequent flyers needing a stylish but compact pram for holidays.

What we like

• Excellent manoeuvrability
• Tall, roomy seat with 25kg limit
• Lie-flat seat from birth
• Stylish design and strong build quality
• Useful extras included, such as rain cover and carry bag

What to keep in mind

• Small basket
• Slightly fiddly recline
• Premium price

Known for its larger pushchairs, iCandy has made a strong entry into compact strollers with the Pip. It retains the brand’s premium feel and build quality while still folding down small enough for travel.

What makes it stand out is how well it pushes. Lightweight buggies often struggle here, but reviewer Steph found it smooth over pavements, kerbs, cobbles and station platforms. If easy steering is top of your wishlist and you don’t mind the smaller basket, this is one of the best-performing options here.

Read the full MadeForMums iCandy Pip stroller review

Available from: Mamas & Papas, John Lewis, Boots and iCandy

Bugaboo Butterfly 2, £429

Best for: Great storage

Why we chose it: The Bugaboo Butterfly 2 stands out for offering a very easy fold, a generous basket and enough comfort and durability to double as an everyday pushchair.

A strong choice for parents looking for a compact pushchair that can genuinely double as both an everyday buggy and a travel stroller, it is a highly versatile product that can be used for everyday errands right through to international trips.

What we like

• Extremely quick and easy one-handed fold
• Suitable from birth to around 4 years
• Large, easy-to-access basket
• Smooth manoeuvrability with larger-than-average wheels
• Premium, sturdy build quality

What to keep in mind

• No shoulder strap for carrying
• Handlebar height isn’t adjustable
• Seat is world-facing only
• Premium price point

Bugaboo has a strong reputation for well-designed pushchairs that feel built to last, and the Butterfly 2 continues that tradition. Compact enough for travel but substantial enough for daily use, it’s a particularly appealing option for parents who want one stroller that can cover both.

Reviewer Daisy found it smooth and easy to push over pavements, kerbs and park paths, and was especially impressed by its one-handed fold and roomy basket. It’s slightly bigger than some ultra-compact rivals when weaving through tight café spaces, but that extra bulk pays off in comfort, sturdiness and storage. If basket space matters and you want a travel stroller that doesn’t feel flimsy, the Butterfly 2 is a great fit.

Read the full MadeForMums Bugaboo Butterfly 2 pushchair review

Available from: Bundle Baby, Amazon, Bugaboo, Boots, Mamas&Papas and John Lewis

UPPAbaby MINU V3, £399.99

Best for: Growing with your child

Why we chose it: The MINU V3 is a strong long-term option thanks to its plush seat, sturdy frame and features that support both younger babies and older toddlers.

For parents looking for a pram for travelling or use in an urban environment, the MINU V3 ticks all the boxes. Sleek, stylish and spacious, the UPPAbaby MINU V3 folds down to a truly impressive size and is a great option for city dwellers or frequent travellers.

What we like

• Quick, one-handed fold
• Plush, comfortable seat with padded insert
• Adjustable footrest and deep recline
• Generous basket
• Very sturdy frame

What to keep in mind

• Not the nimblest in tight spaces
• Trickier to carry by hand than some rivals

The latest version of UPPAbaby’s compact stroller is especially good for parents who want a travel-friendly buggy that doesn’t skimp on comfort. The padded insert, deep recline, adjustable footrest and sturdy frame all help it feel more substantial than many lightweight rivals.

Reviewer Steph particularly liked how solid it felt compared with other city pushchairs, and the large basket is another bonus for day-to-day life. It’s one of the heavier picks here, but that sturdiness is exactly why some families will prefer it.

Read the full MadeForMums UPPAbaby MINU V3 pushchair review

Available from: Natural Baby Shower, Kiddies Kingdom and John Lewis

Kinderkraft PILOT 2, £199

Best for: Value

Why we chose it: The Kinderkraft PILOT 2 offers a compact fold, newborn suitability and decent style at a much more affordable price than many rivals.

The Kinderkraft PILOT 2 is a compact and stylish stroller for travellers. It is a great option given its value for money and usability. I would recommend it as a budget option for travel as it will give you a robust yet stylish experience, all for well under £200.

What we like

• Strong value for money
• Suitable from birth
• Compact fold and travel bag included
• Stylish appearance

What to keep in mind

• Lack of suspension
• Protective travel case can be fiddly
• Heavier than some compact rivals at 8kg

One of the more recent additions to the category, the Kinderkraft PILOT 2 is a good-value travel stroller with a compact fold and useful features, including a built-in footrest and suitability from birth.

It doesn’t have the suspension or premium feel of pricier models, but reviewer Sophie found it a robust and stylish budget option for family holidays. If you don’t want to spend big on a travel buggy, this is one of the better-value options in the category.

Read the full MadeForMums Kinderkraft PILOT 2 pushchair review

Available from: Kiddies Kingdom and Kinderkraft

Cybex Orfeo, from £299.95

Best for: Luxury touches and colour choices

Why we chose it: The Orfeo is a stylish, well-equipped compact stroller that feels more premium than many rivals and offers useful extras for travel.

The Cybex Orfeo stroller is ideal for short holidays and city mini-breaks. It's a great option for those looking for a lightweight, compact pushchair that can be taken onboard a flight as hand luggage.

What we like

• Ergonomic lie-flat recline from birth
• Integrated carry strap
• Adjustable leg rest
• Stylish with good canopy coverage
• Front wheel suspension

What to keep in mind

• Small basket
• Can be fiddly to unfold

For families seeking a luxurious and stylish travel buggy, the Cybex Orfeo has plenty going for it. Features including the one-pull harness, UPF 50+ canopy, adjustable leg rest and front-wheel suspension make it feel travel-ready and comfortable for little ones.

Reviewer Allie was particularly impressed by how comfortable her baby looked in the seat and how easy the fold was to manage once learned. It’s a smart choice for short breaks and city travel, though parents should be aware that the basket is small and unfolding can take some practice.

Read the full MadeForMums Cybex Orfeo stroller review

Available from: Bundle Baby

Compare the best cabin-approved strollers

What to look for when buying a travel buggy

• Fold type – A compact fold is the key feature of any travel buggy, but they don’t all fold in the same way. Some now have gravity-assisted or “magic” folds that are very easy to use one-handed, while others need two hands or a few extra steps but fold smaller.
• Comfort for your child – Travel buggies often have less padding than larger pushchairs, so check seat fabrics, recline, harness comfort, leg rests and canopy coverage.
• Ease of pushing – Smaller wheels can struggle on cobbles, gravel or rougher routes, though most compact strollers are fine through airports, on pavements and on public transport. Suspension can make a big difference.
• Handlebar height – Many travel strollers have fixed handlebars, so taller or shorter parents may want to try them in person before buying.
• Durability – Lightweight doesn’t have to mean flimsy, but some cheaper buggies will feel less robust than premium models built for both travel and daily use.
• Age suitability – Some travel strollers are only suitable from 6 months, while others offer lie-flat seats, carrycots or car seat compatibility for younger babies. At the other end, check the weight limit and seat size if you want it to last into toddlerhood.
• Hood coverage – Smaller hoods are common on compact strollers, but a deeper canopy or UPF 50+ fabric can be especially useful for naps and sunny holidays.
• Storage – Travel buggies usually have smaller baskets than full-size pushchairs, so if you’re likely to use it every day as well as on holiday, basket size may be worth prioritising.
• Weight – A stroller for cabin use should ideally weigh under 10kg and still feel manageable to lift into overhead lockers or onto public transport.

Carry-on hand luggage size limits by airline

The International Air Transport Association’s guidance suggests that carry-on baggage should have a maximum length of 56cm, width of 45cm and depth of 25cm, so a buggy generally needs to fold within those limits to be considered cabin approved. However, not all airlines follow IATA guidance exactly, so it’s always worth checking the current policy before you fly.

Do all airlines allow buggies as hand luggage?

The International Air Transport Association’s general guide to carry-on size requirements is used by hundreds of airlines around the world, but this guidance is voluntary and individual airlines still have their own rules and restrictions. We spoke to eight major airlines to find out more.

Do bear in mind that things can change at the gate and, on busy flights, passengers may be asked to put larger items of hand luggage into the hold, including buggies. We’ve also heard anecdotal evidence that some airlines may accept slightly larger folding buggies in certain circumstances.

Emirates

Emirates is the most easygoing of the airlines we spoke to about travel buggies, perhaps because they fly larger, modern planes. A spokesperson said they would accept any size of fully collapsible travel buggy into the cabin, as long as there was space. If there is no available room onboard, the stroller will be checked in as hold luggage.

EasyJet

EasyJet currently has two cabin bag sizes, a smaller one that is free and a larger, paid-for size. The airline told us that as long as the buggy fits within its cabin bag allowances, it can be permitted in the cabin. The larger allowance is 56 x 45 x 25cm.

British Airways

British Airways’ cabin bag size is currently 56 x 45 x 25cm. The airline told us that travel buggies of this size may be accepted in place of your hand luggage, although cabin storage is not guaranteed.

Jet2

Jet2 told us that no travel buggies of any size would be allowed into cabins on its flights, with infant-related luggage needing to go into the hold.

TUI

TUI’s hand luggage size is 55 x 40 x 20cm. A spokesperson told us that its hand luggage policy applies to both bags and travel buggies that meet the size requirements.

Ryanair

Ryanair said that if a foldable pushchair meets the size requirements of its 10kg cabin bag at 55 x 40 x 20cm, and there is adequate capacity in the cabin, passengers may be allowed to carry it onboard.

Qantas

Qantas confirmed that a fold-up buggy that fits within its hand luggage restrictions can be stored in the overhead locker. On international flights, the maximum cabin bag size is 56 x 36 x 23cm.

Virgin Atlantic

Virgin Atlantic told us it only accepts a specific list of pushchairs that meet the size and weight limitations of its hand baggage policy. This includes just four branded buggies: the GB Pockit, Britax Holiday, Silver Cross Jet and Babyzen Yoyo. Other pushchairs are generally tagged and placed in the hold.

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