Joybuy Insights

Buying a Pram or Buggy: How to Find the Right Model for Your Family

A new pram or buggy should be reliable in everyday life – when shopping, on pavements, in the car and while travelling. However, many purchasing decisions do not come down to design, but to details such as the actual folded dimensions, the approved age range or an impractical seating position.

Parents should be aware of three common pitfalls before buying:

  1. “From birth” is taken to mean any reclining position. An adjustable backrest alone does not automatically mean that a model is suitable for newborns. The manufacturer’s information is crucial, as is a genuinely suitable flat lie-flat position or a separately approved carrycot.
  2. The folded dimensions are underestimated. Even a compact pram can take up considerable space when unfolded. For the boot, home or train, the folded dimensions are what really matter – including wheels, bumper bar and accessories.
  3. Low weight is confused with complete comfort. A lightweight buggy is convenient to carry, but may offer less storage space or suspension. For daily journeys on uneven roads, wheel suspension, brakes and a sturdy frame are particularly important.

The most important buying criteria for prams and buggies

1. Check the recommended age and weight limit

A baby buggy is not automatically suitable from birth. Many travel buggies and lightweight city models are designed for use from around six months, once the child can sit independently. Models with an explicitly flat lie-flat position or carrycot, on the other hand, can be used as a pram from birth.

Also pay attention to the maximum load. Many current models support 22 kg, which may be suitable up to around the age of four. This figure generally refers to the child and does not automatically apply to the shopping basket. A basket with a separate load limit of, for example, 5 kg must not be loaded more heavily.

2. Folded dimensions, weight and transport

For train journeys, holidays and smaller homes, a folding pram with an easy-to-use folding mechanism is essential. The CYBEX LIBELLE, for example, weighs 6 kg and has stated folded dimensions of 32 × 20 × 48 cm. The Chicco Travel Stroller WE weighs 5,5 kg and measures 59 × 21,5 × 46,5 cm when folded.

Check the following before buying:

  • Will the folded dimensions fit in the boot or intended storage space?
  • Can the pram be folded with one hand?
  • Does it remain standing on its own when folded?
  • Is a carry handle or transport bag included?
  • What luggage restrictions apply with the airline in question?

A small folded size can mean less storage space in the pram. If you shop regularly, you should therefore also compare the basket size and permitted load.

3. Comfort and safety for everyday use

A pram with a lie-flat function should have an easy-to-use backrest, an adjustable footrest and a suitable harness system. A 5-point harness keeps the child’s upper body and pelvis in position. It must be adjusted correctly for every journey.

Other features that can be checked objectively include:

  • Parking brake that is easy to operate
  • swivel front wheels for narrow paths
  • suspension for different surfaces
  • adjustable handlebar for different heights
  • sun canopy with a stated UV protection rating
  • washable or wipe-clean covers
  • seat unit and accessories that lock securely into place

A pram with a car seat adapter can be useful for short journeys. However, an infant car seat is not a substitute for a permanently suitable lie-flat surface. Always check that the specific adapter is compatible with the infant car seat being used.

Our selection by everyday needs and family profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious first-time buyers
Kikka Boo Autofolding Stroller Eden Grey

Kikka Boo Autofolding Stroller Eden Grey

Why this product suits this profile: This model combines use from birth up to 22 kg with a one-hand folding system, making it suitable for families looking for a versatile everyday pram.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The age and weight limits are clearly stated. The folded dimensions of 74 × 47 × 34 cm can be compared with your available storage space before buying.

Main benefits & strengths

7,8 kg product weight, 4-way adjustable backrest, 2-way adjustable footrest and 5-point harness.

Suitable for: Buyers with high quality expectations
cybex Gazelle S Stroller BLK Moon Black

cybex Gazelle S Stroller BLK Moon Black

Why this product suits this profile: This modular pram is designed for families who need a solution for one child, siblings or twins, with a range of configurations.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The usage limits for single and double configurations are stated separately: up to 22 kg for one child, or 2 × 22 kg in double mode.

Main benefits & strengths

More than 20 configuration options, use from birth and a total permitted load of 23 kg across the two storage solutions.

Suitable for: Special uses & frequent users
CYBEX Gold LIBELLE Stroller Ultra-Light Moss Green

CYBEX Gold LIBELLE Stroller Ultra-Light Moss Green

Why this product suits this profile: As a travel buggy for trains, cars and aeroplanes, this model is designed to be lightweight and fold down to a very compact size.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The weight of 6 kg and folded dimensions of 32 × 20 × 48 cm provide specific values for comparison. Airline rules should nevertheless be checked before every journey.

Main benefits & strengths

Supports up to 22 kg, adjustable backrest, extendable footrest and optional infant car seat adapter.

Suitable for: Families with two young children
Kikka boo Stroller Board with Seat Ally XL Black

Kikka boo Stroller Board with Seat Ally XL Black

Why this product suits this profile: This accessory complements an existing pram when an older sibling occasionally wants to sit or ride along.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The minimum age of 15 months and maximum load of 20 kg help prevent use outside the stated requirements.

Main benefits & strengths

Universal adjustment, 360-degree swivel wheels with shock absorption, removable seat and compact dimensions of 41 × 63 × 18 cm.

Looking for more options?

We have put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the safety regulations applicable in the EU.

Tandem pram, twin buggy or ride-on board with seat?

A tandem pram or twin buggy is useful when two children regularly travel together and need to ride independently. Pay attention to the age recommendations for each seat, the maximum load per seat and the width required for doors, lifts and pavements.

A ride-on board with a seat, on the other hand, requires an existing pram. Before buying, check whether it can be attached to your own frame and whether the handlebar remains easy to reach. With the Kikka Boo Ally XL, the adapter length and height can be adjusted in several ways; however, the manufacturer explicitly states that it is suitable only from 15 months.

FAQ about prams and buggies

From what age can a baby sit in a buggy?

This depends on the individual model. Many buggies are designed for use from around six months. A model suitable from birth must offer a suitable lie-flat position, carrycot or compatible infant car seat in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. A child should not be transported for extended periods in a seat that is only partially reclined.

How long can a pram be used?

Many models are rated for up to a body weight of 22 kg or until around four years of age. However, the maximum load, the child’s height and how easily the harness system can be operated are always decisive. A pram must not be used further if the frame, brake, harnesses or locking mechanism are damaged.

What are the ongoing costs of using a pram?

In addition to the purchase price, there may be costs for adapters, rain covers, replacement wheels, seat liners or an additional carrycot. It is therefore worth checking the contents of the package and the prices of compatible accessories before buying. Regular cleaning, removing sand from the folding mechanism and checking the wheels and brakes can help extend the product’s service life.