Joybuy Insights

Buying a pushchair: what really matters for everyday use

A pushchair in Germany needs to handle all kinds of situations: trips to nursery, shopping, public transport, walks in the park and the occasional holiday. There’s a wide choice, from travel systems with a carrycot to ultra-compact travel buggies. But not every advertised feature will be useful for your day-to-day needs.

Three common misconceptions often lead to the wrong choice:

  • “Compact” is taken to mean easy to handle: A pushchair may fold down small but still be heavy to carry in everyday use. Always check the weight, folded dimensions and carrying handle together.
  • A lie-flat seat doesn’t automatically replace a carrycot: If you’re looking for a pushchair from birth, check that the lie-flat position is explicitly approved for newborns and see which insert or carrycot is included.
  • More extras don’t automatically mean more useful features: A large shopping basket, a cup holder or electric assistance is only worthwhile if it suits your routes, storage space and budget.

The most important things to consider when buying a pushchair

1. Age guidance and seat position

Newborns need a suitable flat sleeping surface. A pushchair with a carrycot offers a clearly defined solution. Alternatively, a model with a fully lie-flat position may be suitable, provided the manufacturer says it can be used from birth.

For a seat that will be used later, look for several backrest positions, an adjustable footrest and a correctly adjustable 5-point harness. According to the product information, models such as the CYBEX Gold BEEZY are suitable from birth up to a body weight of 22 kg. The CYBEX Gold LIBELLE, by contrast, is listed as suitable for children from around 6 months up to 22 kg.

2. Weight, folded dimensions and storage space

Before you buy, measure:

  • the width of your boot,
  • the height of your storage space,
  • the width of doorways and lifts,
  • the weight you can comfortably carry on a regular basis.

According to the product details, the lightweight pushchair Chicco Travel Stroller WE weighs 5.5 kg and folds down to 59 × 21,5 × 46,5 cm. The CYBEX Gold BEEZY weighs 8.5 kg and folds down to 27 × 48,5 × 64,5 cm. A travel system or sibling pushchair is naturally larger and heavier.

The shopping basket is worth checking too. The CYBEX Gazelle S is listed as having two storage options with a total capacity of 23 kg. This figure describes the permitted load; it shouldn’t be taken as a recommendation to keep the pushchair fully loaded at all times.

3. Wheels, suspension and where you’ll use it

Swivel wheels and basic suspension are often enough for trips around town. For cobbled streets, woodland paths or uneven pavements, larger wheels, a sturdy frame and suitable suspension are useful. Air-filled tyres can offer a comfortable ride, but they need regular checks and are generally more prone to losing pressure.

A compact pushchair or travel buggy is handy for flying and using public transport. Even so, check the current requirements of your airline before you fly. A small folded size doesn’t automatically mean it’s approved as cabin baggage.

Compatibility with infant car seats

A pushchair compatible with an infant car seat can make it easier to move between your car and the pushchair frame. The infant car seat, adapters and pushchair frame must be explicitly compatible. An infant car seat is designed for use in a vehicle; it shouldn’t be used as a long-term substitute for a carrycot or sleeping space.

Our picks for different lifestyles and families

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

Kikka Boo Autofolding Stroller Eden Grey

Why this product suits this profile: Weighing 7,8 kg, this pushchair is aimed at families looking for a foldable option for city trips and the occasional day out.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The stated folded dimensions of 74 × 47 × 34 cm make it easier to plan your storage space. According to the product description, the flat backrest position is suitable from birth.

Key benefits and strengths

One-hand automatic folding, 360-degree swivel wheels, suspension and a rain cover included.

Ideal for: Buyers who expect high quality
cybex Eos Lux SLV Stone Grey

cybex Eos Lux SLV Stone Grey

Why this product suits this profile: The 2-in-1 design combines a lie-flat unit for the early months with a seat for later, making it a good option for families looking for a solution they can use for longer.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The age guidance of birth to around 4 years is backed up by a maximum load of 22 kg. The seat can be reversed to face either direction.

Key benefits and strengths

Flat backrest position, height-adjustable handlebar, puncture-proof wheels and an UPF 50+ sun canopy, according to the product information.

Ideal for: Specific needs and frequent use
cybex eGazelle S BLK Moon Black

cybex eGazelle S BLK Moon Black

Why this product suits this profile: Families dealing with hills, longer journeys or two children can make good use of the electric assistance and multiple configurations.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The electric assistance is clearly presented as an extra feature. It’s worth planning how the battery, charger, controls and handbrake will fit into your daily routine before you buy.

Key benefits and strengths

Over 20 configuration options, electric assistance, rocking function and storage with a load capacity of up to 23 kg, according to the product information.

Ideal for: Parents who travel
Chicco Travel Stroller WE Black

Chicco Travel Stroller WE Black

Why this product suits this profile: Weighing 5,5 kg, with one-hand folding and a carry bag, this travel buggy is designed for families who are often on the move.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Its low weight is complemented by specific folded dimensions. Even so, check with your airline before every flight to confirm whether it can be taken as cabin baggage.

Key benefits and strengths

Fully adjustable backrest, 50+ UV protection, ventilation panels and compatibility with the Chicco Kory i-Size car seat, according to the product details.

When a sibling or twin pushchair makes sense

A sibling pushchair is a good choice if you need to transport a baby and an older child together. For two children of the same age, a twin pushchair may be more suitable. Check:

  • the maximum load per seat,
  • the overall width for doorways and lifts,
  • the seat positions and how easy the harnesses are to reach,
  • the folded dimensions with both seats attached,
  • which carrycots and infant car seats are available.

According to the product information, the CYBEX Gazelle S is suitable for single use up to 22 kg and double use with 2 × 22 kg. Additional seats, carrycots or adapters may need to be bought separately. Check the exact contents of the specific offer before you buy.

Running costs and care

As well as the purchase price, factor in spare parts, adapters, rain covers and maintenance. For an electric pushchair, you’ll also need to consider charging times and how to manage the battery and charger. Removable covers that can be washed at 30 °C make cleaning easier. Check the wheels, brakes, harnesses, locks and folding mechanism regularly for signs of wear.

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.

Frequently asked questions about pushchairs

Which pushchair is suitable from birth?

Choose a model with a carrycot or a flat lie-flat position explicitly approved by the manufacturer. Newborns shouldn’t use an upright seat unit unless it has been approved for that purpose.

How long can you use a pushchair for?

Many models are designed for use until around 4 years of age or up to a stated maximum weight of 22 kg. Always follow the manufacturer’s age and weight guidance, as well as taking your child’s development into account.

How much does a good pushchair cost?

The cost depends on the design and accessories. A travel buggy is usually lighter and more basic, while travel systems, sibling pushchairs and electric pushchairs need additional components. So compare more than just the base price: check the cost of the carrycot, adapters, infant car seat, rain cover and spare parts too.