Joybuy Insights

Buying a pushchair: A practical guide for everyday use, city life and travel

A pushchair should be easy to use day to day, keep your child safe and suit the journeys you make. However, there are clear differences between a travel pushchair, a compact city pushchair and a pushchair suitable from birth. If you focus only on low weight or a compact folded size, you could overlook important details such as the recline, weight limit and features.

Common pushchair-buying pitfalls

1. A compact fold without considering how you’ll use it

A folding pushchair can save plenty of space in the car boot, on the train or at home. But the label “cabin-approved pushchair” alone isn’t enough for air travel. Airlines have their own size and weight requirements. Even a model that folds down to a cabin-friendly size may still be treated as hold luggage at the gate. So check the dimensions and rules before every trip.

2. “Suitable from birth” doesn’t always mean the same thing

A pushchair suitable from birth needs a genuinely suitable lie-flat position or a separate carrycot. Some models are only suitable for use with the seat unit from around six months, while other pushchairs have a flat recline or a reversible seat. The specific age guidance for each product is what matters – not just the wording in the marketing.

3. A high weight limit doesn’t automatically mean plenty of storage

A pushchair with a 22 kg weight limit may last for several years. However, this limit applies to the child, not the shopping basket. The basket often has its own limit, for example 5 kg. Heavy bags hanging from the handle can also affect stability. Put shopping in the basket provided and make sure you don’t exceed its stated weight limit.

Technical details to check before you buy

Weight and folded size

The product weight and folded dimensions are important factors when choosing a pushchair for stairs, public transport and travel. Very lightweight models are often easier to carry, but may offer less storage or have smaller wheels. If you regularly travel over cobbles or uneven pavements, larger wheels and suspension may matter more than saving that last kilogram.

Check:

  • Pushchair weight
  • Folded dimensions: length, width and height
  • Whether it stands upright when folded
  • Carry handle or travel bag
  • Width for lifts, doorways and narrow paths

Recline, footrest and age guidance

A continuously adjustable backrest lets you fine-tune the position between sitting and resting. For younger babies, a lie-flat position is important, provided the manufacturer specifically approves the pushchair for this use. An adjustable footrest can make the seat more comfortable as your child grows.

If you’re looking for a pushchair suitable from birth, also check whether:

  • the lie-flat position is genuinely flat or only slightly reclined,
  • a carrycot is required,
  • your child can sit facing you,
  • the harness can be adjusted to fit a small child.

Safety, canopy and car seat compatibility

A 5-point harness, an easy-to-reach brake and a folding mechanism that locks securely are some of the key things to check. A pushchair with a sun canopy can provide shade; claims such as UPF50+ should be supported by the product details. The canopy doesn’t replace taking general precautions in strong sunshine.

If you’re looking for a pushchair with a car seat adapter, check compatibility carefully. Adapters are often sold separately or approved for use only with specific car seats. Before you buy, make sure the brand, model and items included all match.

Our picks for different everyday needs and shoppers

Ideal for: Budget-conscious first-time buyers
Chicco Ohlala' 3 Stroller Grey Mist

Chicco Ohlala' 3 Stroller Grey Mist

Why it suits this shopper: Weighing just 4.2 kg, this lightweight pushchair has a one-handed fold and a carry handle, making it ideal for short city trips and frequent carrying. According to the product details, it has a maximum weight limit of 15 kg.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Its low weight comes with a flat-reclining backrest, adjustable footrest and a sun canopy with a UV50+ rating. Bear in mind the lower weight limit before you buy.

Key benefits and strengths

Weighs 4.2 kg, folds with one hand, has an adjustable backrest and is easy to handle around town.

Ideal for: Buyers looking for premium quality
CYBEX Gold BEEZY Stroller Ergonomic Reclining

CYBEX Gold BEEZY Stroller, ergonomic recline

Why it suits this shopper: The BEEZY combines a weight of 8.5 kg with a lie-flat position, all-wheel suspension, an XL sun canopy with UPF50+ and a weight limit of up to 22 kg.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details list the child weight limit of 22 kg and the basket limit of 5 kg separately. Adapters for CYBEX and gb car seats are not included.

Key benefits and strengths

Folds to 27 x 48,5 x 64,5 cm, with a continuously adjustable backrest and a self-standing fold.

Ideal for: Specific needs and frequent use
CYBEX Gold LIBELLE Stroller Ultra-Light Moss Green

CYBEX Gold LIBELLE Stroller Ultra-Light Moss Green

Why it suits this shopper: Designed as a travel pushchair, the LIBELLE weighs 6 kg and folds down to 32 x 20 x 48 cm. It’s suitable for children from around six months up to 22 kg.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Its especially compact fold comes with a clearly stated minimum age. Separate adapters are needed to use it with a CYBEX car seat.

Key benefits and strengths

Weighs 6 kg, folds to a cabin-friendly size, has an adjustable backrest and front suspension.

Ideal for: Families looking for a pushchair from birth
hauck Comfort N Care Stroller with footmuff and car seat adapter

hauck Comfort N Care Stroller with footmuff and car seat adapter

Why it suits this shopper: According to the product details, this model is suitable from birth. It has an adjustable backrest, a car seat adapter and a weight limit of up to 22 kg.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The adapter is specifically listed as included. However, at 13.4 kg with folded dimensions of 72,5 x 60 x 36 cm, this model is less suited to travelling with minimal luggage.

Key benefits and strengths

Car seat adapter included, 5-point harness, large wheels with four-wheel suspension and an extendable sun canopy.

Looking for more options?

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.

Pushchair FAQs

Which pushchair is suitable for air travel?

A cabin-size pushchair should have a compact fold and be lightweight. You’ll also need to check the latest requirements of your airline. The CYBEX LIBELLE is designed for compact transport, weighing 6 kg and folding to 32 x 20 x 48 cm. However, this doesn’t guarantee that it can be taken into the cabin.

How long can you use a pushchair for?

This depends on the maximum weight limit, age guidance and seat dimensions. Models with a 22 kg limit are often intended for use until around four years of age. A pushchair with a 15 kg limit, such as the Chicco Ohlala' 3, may be designed for a shorter period of use. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidance and make sure the pushchair fits your child safely.

What are the ongoing costs of a pushchair?

In addition to the purchase price, you may need to pay for adapters, a rain cover, a travel bag or replacement parts. If you’re buying a pushchair with a car seat adapter, check whether it’s included. Regular cleaning, checking the harness, brakes and wheels, and following the care instructions can help you look after your pushchair properly and get the most out of it.