If you’re looking to buy a buggy, there’s plenty of choice: travel buggies, city buggies, compact buggies and combination pushchairs. Many models look similar at first glance, but can differ considerably in weight, folded dimensions, recline and features. For families in the UK, stairs, narrow lifts, public transport, uneven pavements and limited boot space are also important factors to consider.
A particularly compact fold is useful if you need to store the buggy in the boot or on a train. However, check whether it’s genuinely easy to fold and whether it stands securely when folded. A one-hand fold can be helpful when you’re carrying your child. It’s still worth checking the folding mechanism and the instruction manual.
With a cabin-friendly buggy, it’s also important to remember that airline size limits vary. A model with compact folded dimensions may be suitable for many airlines, but you’ll need to check the relevant rules in advance to confirm whether it can be taken on board as hand luggage.
The age recommendation “from birth” shouldn’t be the only deciding factor. What matters is whether the seat offers a sufficiently flat or ergonomic recline, and whether the manufacturer explicitly approves it for this use. A traditional buggy with an upright seat is often better suited to children who can already sit up unaided.
If you’re looking for a pushchair from birth, it’s worth distinguishing between a buggy with a recline function, a travel system with an infant car seat, and a combination pushchair with a separate carrycot.
A lightweight buggy is easier to carry. However, very compact models often have smaller wheels and less space in the shopping basket. For cobbled streets, woodland paths or longer walks, suspension, wheel size and frame construction all matter. A city buggy can be very manoeuvrable for everyday use, while a model with larger wheels may be better suited to a mix of surfaces.
Check the specific information provided by the manufacturer. Some models are designed for use from around 6 months up to a child weight of 22 kg. According to their product descriptions, other buggies are suitable from birth to around four years. The description “buggy up to 22 kg” refers to the maximum weight capacity; it isn’t automatically a recommendation for every child up to that age.
The safety harness should be easy to adjust correctly. A 5-point harness secures the shoulders, hips and crotch. Before every journey, check that the harness, locks and brake are properly fastened.
The following details are particularly useful for train journeys, car trips and holidays:
A continuously adjustable backrest can be useful when your child needs a rest on the go. If you’re choosing a buggy from birth, the manufacturer should explicitly state that its lie-flat position is suitable for newborns. A sun canopy with UPF 50+ has a stated protection rating, but it doesn’t replace general sun protection or appropriate clothing.
If you want to use the buggy with an infant car seat, make sure the brand, model and required adapters are compatible. Adapters aren’t always included. Also check which accessories are actually supplied: a rain cover, footmuff, mosquito net, travel bag and cup holder can all affect the total cost.
Why this product suits these needs: This model is listed as suitable from birth up to 22 kg and comes with an adapter for an infant car seat. It’s a good option for families looking to combine several functions in one pushchair.
Its stated suitability from birth is backed up by a lie-flat position, an adjustable-height 5-point harness and the adapter included in the box.
According to the product information, it comes with an aluminium frame, puncture-proof rubber tyres, 4-way suspension, an XL basket and an adapter.
Why this product suits these needs: The BEEZY is listed as suitable from birth and combines a compact one-hand fold with an ergonomic lie-flat position. It’s well suited to city trips, travel and homes with limited storage space.
The product details list the lie-flat backrest and the required adapters separately, making it easier to plan how you’ll use it and budget for any extras.
8.5 kg weight, folded dimensions of 27 × 48.5 × 64.5 cm, 5 kg basket, 4-wheel suspension and a UPF 50+ sun canopy.
Why this product suits these needs: This travel buggy is designed for families looking to combine low weight, a compact fold and a practical way to carry it when flying.
Its folded dimensions of 59 × 21.5 × 46.5 cm and weight of 5.5 kg are clearly stated. Even so, you should check your airline’s rules before every trip.
One-hand fold, fully adjustable backrest, travel backpack, water-repellent canopy with UPF 50+ and compatibility with the Chicco Kory i-Size car seat.
Why this product suits these needs: Its one-button automatic fold is handy if you regularly travel by car, bus or train. The backrest adjusts to four positions, including a flat recline.
As well as the folding function, the product details give the weight, folded dimensions and maximum weight capacity. Before using it from birth, follow the manufacturer’s guidance on the lie-flat position.
7.8 kg product weight, folded dimensions of 47 × 30 × 77 cm, 360-degree swivel wheels, suspension, 5-point harness and a 22 kg weight capacity.
We’ve put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and fully comply with the safety regulations in force in the EU.
It depends on the model. Many traditional buggies are designed for use from around 6 months, when a child can sit up unaided. A model with a lie-flat position explicitly approved by the manufacturer may be suitable from birth. Always follow the product description and safety instructions.
Many models are rated for a maximum child weight of 22 kg or use up to around four years of age. However, age and weight are only guidelines. The buggy must remain stable, the harness must fit properly and your child must not be able to climb out of the seat.
On top of the purchase price, you may need to pay for adapters, a rain cover, footmuff or travel bag. Wear-and-tear parts such as wheels and brake components should also be factored in. A removable cover that can be machine-washed according to the manufacturer’s instructions can make everyday care easier.