Do you remember your first car?
It wasn’t something you blew your entire life savings on. It was just a means of transportation from A to B. There were some extra features you considered a “must-have,” regardless of the cost, like air conditioning or working speakers. But ultimately, you were flexible and just happy to be behind the wheel. This experience was good practice for car shopping down the road.
Now you’re not the only one that needs wheels. Having a newborn is a new major chapter in your life. In that respect, your first stroller is more important than your first car. But one thing remains the same, why pay for features that you don’t need? Keep reading to see our list of the ten best budget-friendly strollers for 2024.
- What to Know Before Shopping for Inexpensive Strollers
- Top 10 Best Cheap Strollers 2024
- 1. Best Overall Pick: Summer Infant 3D Lite Convenience
- 2. Best Budget Pick: Kolcraft Cloud Plus Lightweight
- 3. Best Premium Pick: GB Pockit
- 4. Best Sit-and-Stand Double Stroller: Joovy Caboose Ultralight Graphite
- 5. Best for Jogging: Toddler Trend Expedition Jogger Stroller
- 6. Best Under $50: Jeep North Star Stroller
- 7. Best Reversible: Jeep Unlimited Stroller
- 8. Best Double Tandem Stroller: Graco DuoGlider
- 9. Best Travel System: Safety 1st Smooth Ride Travel System
- 10. Best Lightweight Travel System: Graco Verb Stroller
- Buying the Best Stroller for a Limited Budget
- Happy Trails!
What to Know Before Shopping for Inexpensive Strollers
So let’s discuss some of the features you should consider when deciding what to look for in a stroller. A stroller should adapt to the daily needs of a parent. Some parents will constantly be loading and unloading their stroller into the car, some live in rainy or colder climates, and some have more than one toddler that needs a ride at the same time.
Luxury strollers may offer more features, but that might be more than you need. Crossing off what you don’t need in a stroller will save you huge amounts of money, which would be more wisely spent on other toddler accessories.
Type
They might look similar, but strollers have different builds and are meant to fill different functions. Full-size strollers are the most common type and often have extra convenience features, although they are too heavy and bulky for jogging and can be a pain to keep loading and unloading from the car.
If you want to go jogging with your little one, or you just want to carry them around in their infant car seat, there are jogging strollers and travel systems available for these activities.
For quick walks or airplane travel, you might be better off using a lightweight stroller, which is much easier to maneuver but has less storage space on it.
If you have two little babies, you can choose between a double tandem or a double side-by-side stroller to make walks much easier.
For more information on the types of strollers available, consult the buyer’s guide below.
Ease of use
Sure, a stroller is a safe nest on wheels for your little one, but you’re the one doing the chauffeuring. Depending on where you know you’ll be doing most of your walks, wheel size and material are very important. As you wouldn’t want some Michelin-sized tires when you’re only out for a light jog, or little donuts for wheels when you know you’ll be saddling the stroller’s storage space with other items that will add weight to the wheels.
Another important aspect is the way the stroller folds, so you can rest easy knowing that it won’t ambush the feet of other bypassers when you just stored it next to you on the bus.
Comfort
Besides ease of use, you’ll also want to include as many features as possible that make your and your baby’s walk more comfortable. Depending on what climate you are facing in your area, some strollers have adjustable canopies to block out the sun from the baby’s eyes, and other strollers have umbrella holders for rainy days.
Storage space
When you’re walking around with a toddler, the stroller sometimes needs to feel like a fully-loaded diaper bag. You have to carry bottles, blankets, diapers, and toys for your toddler, but it also helps to have your own storage space as well.
Build
Some strollers are designed to have a lightweight build, but even lightweight designs have to be sturdy. After all, you are carrying a human life around. Even if you are getting an inexpensive stroller, the materials themselves don’t have to be cheap. Durability is also an important feature, as you wouldn’t want to keep buying strollers like pairs of socks.
Safety Features
While your baby’s comfort is important, mainly you need to rest assured that they are safe. All the products on our list are approved by the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA).
Keeping these criteria in mind, we have scoured the web for you to find the most affordable and dependable strollers on the market. This is an item you will see almost as often as your baby, so you might as well take your time to decide which one offers the features that mold to your needs the best.
Top 10 Best Cheap Strollers 2024
1. Best Overall Pick: Summer Infant 3D Lite Convenience
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Rider Weight Limit: 50 pounds
- Stroller Weight: 13 pounds
Type
This is a lightweight stroller that, due to its foldable canopy, is also referred to as an umbrella stroller. It is ideal to use on day trips or on vacations.
Ease of Use
The stroller is very easy to maneuver thanks to its four sets of double wheels. The front wheels have an anti-shock system that makes it easy to ride even on rougher terrain. The downside with the front wheels is that they are not suitable for gravel or mud, and they’re also not covered, so your baby’s feet might touch them during walks. The two sets of wheels in the back have a lock-system that works by pushing down two small levers with your foot.
It can be easily folded in 3 easy steps. It won’t stand on its own when folded, but it does have a carry handle that makes it easy to transport or to store if you’re on a plane, for example. The auto-lock system keeps it securely folded.
Comfort
The Summer Infant 3D Lite has four reclining positions, including a flat one, which is great for nap time or for changing your toddler’s diaper while you’re on-the-go. It has an easily foldable canopy that protects your toddler’s skin from the sun.
Storage Space
This stroller has an open-design which allows you to easily access the storage space underneath, where you can put diaper bags, shopping bags, and other accessories you might need. A separate pocket is included, where you can store your keys, phone, and wallet, while not worrying about them falling out. There is an extra cupholder where you can place your toddler’s bottle or your coffee mug.
Build
The stroller is made of a lightweight but sturdy aluminum frame. As light as it is, you still need two hands to push and steer it.
Safety Features
This is a lead-free stroller, so none of the materials used are in any way harmful to your baby. The 5-point padded harness holds your child securely in their seat, and it can even adjust based on the toddler’s height, so this stroller grows with your baby.
Value
The Summer Infant 3D Lite is an affordable stroller and one of the best umbrella strollers in this price range. It also comes in 3 other color choices (black, purple/orchid, and teal), but they will run you quite a few extra bucks.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Folds easily
- Generous storage space
- Height-adjustable 5-point harness system
Cons
- No covers on front wheels, toddler’s feet can get hurt
- The canopy has no peek-a-boo window
- It doesn’t self-stand once it is folded
2. Best Budget Pick: Kolcraft Cloud Plus Lightweight
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Rider Weight Limit: 50 pounds
- Stroller Weight: 11.8 pounds
Type
The Kolcraft Cloud Plus stroller is a lightweight stroller, making it ideal for taking on vacations or extended travels while still enjoying some perks of a classic-full size stroller without the added weight.
Ease of Use
The wheels of the Kolcraft Cloud Plus Lightweight stroller are advertised as “all-terrain,” although we don’t recommend using them on rocky and rough surfaces too much. They do have front suspensions, which provide a smoother ride.
The stroller has a one-fold mechanism, which means you can fold it with one hand while holding the baby in the other. Once folded, it self-stands, which is perfect if you ride public transportation, or for storage purposes.
Comfort
This stroller has a three-tier canopy that completely protects your toddler from the sun and is easily foldable. The canopy even has a peek-a-boo window when it’s up, so you can monitor your baby as you are walking. You can choose from multiple reclining positions, which makes nap time easier during the day, as well as sitting up straight.
Storage Space
Beneath the seat is a storage basket where you can easily store baby essentials such as a diaper bag or additional layers. There is also a removable tray on top, which includes two cup holders, albeit a little too small for most recipients. You can fit their bottle and yours while there is still some space left for other small essentials that you need to be handy, like your keys, phone, or even a small purse.
Build
This stroller is fairly durable and well-built, although the frame has a lot of exposed screws, which somewhat reflects the price range. Some extra padding would’ve been nice, but all in all, the materials used make for a sturdy stroller.
Safety Features
The Kolcraft Cloud plus Lightweight is JPMA-approved. A 5-point harness system keeps your child in place, regardless of what position the seat is reclined in. To hold the stroller in place, all you need to do to set the double-action brakes is press the two pedals behind the back wheels. They are a little difficult to press if you’re wearing sandals.
Value
This is one of the most affordable strollers on the market and offers so much more than you would expect from a stroller this cheap. Kolcroft didn’t skimp out on quality or features, and they even offer a one-year money-back guarantee. If you have two babies to carry around, the Cloud Premium Lightweight is also sold as a side-by-side double stroller, which comes with virtually the same features.
Pros
- Affordable
- Folds with one hand and stands on its own
- Reclining seat has various positions
- Plenty of storage space
- 5-point safety system keeps baby in place
Cons
- Fabric and padding feel a bit cheap
- Cup holders are too small
- Brake pedals are not for every type of shoe
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Rider Weight Limit: 55 pounds
- Stroller Weight: 9.5 pounds
Type
The GB Pockit is one of the lightest umbrella-style strollers on the market. Although it feels somewhat flimsy, it can hold its own on rough terrains, due to the good wheel suspension. It is perfect to use on vacations, and even as an everyday-stroller.
Ease of Use
This stroller is easy to push thanks to its front wheels that swivel. When bumpier surfaces occur, they can be locked into place. The wheels in the back can also be blocked so the stroller stays in place, by pushing a brake pedal behind the wheels with your foot.
Because of its compact design, it can be folded easily in 2 quick steps. Once folded, it measures 12 x 7 x 14 inches, which is perfect for stowing in a train, car, or into an overhead compartment on a plane, so you don’t have to check it separately at the gate. Although it is light to carry once it’s folded, it doesn’t have a carry strap.
The stroller’s handlebars are padded to make its maneuverability a breeze.
Comfort
The GB Pockit has a small canopy to partially protect your little one from the sun’s rays. Due to its compact size, it doesn’t lay flat, which makes it unsuitable for babies under 6 months old. The seat is adjustable by using a strap rather than a clip, which can also be a burden if you need to gently lower them as they fall asleep mid-walk.
Storage Space
For a compact stroller such as the GB Pockit, it offers a decent-sized storage basket, where you can place diaper bags or other baby necessities. The basket holds up to 11 pounds in weight.
Build
It might seem flimsy, but this stroller can hold up to 66 pounds in weight, which means that if your toddler weighs up to 55 pounds and you add another 11 pounds to the storage basket, you’ll have no problem using it. GB opted for a fixed hammock-like design for the seat, rather than using frames, to reduce the weight and make it easier to fold and carry.
Safety Features
There is a harness system that will keep your toddlersafely inside the stroller. The GB Pockit also has a safety belt adjusts to the size of your child as they grow into their new stroller.
Value
This stroller exceeds the $100 threshold, but if you know you are a frequent flyer or all-around traveler, you will more than get your money’s worth. It’s a nice thought that the stroller also comes fully assembled, so it’s good to use right out of the box.
Pros
- Very light
- Easy to fold, store, and carry
- Comes assembled
- Front wheels swivel for easier transportation
Cons
- Not cheap
- Canopy is small
- Not suitable for newborns up to 6 months old, as it doesn’t recline to a flat position
- Seat adjusts using a strap, rather than a clip
4. Best Sit-and-Stand Double Stroller: Joovy Caboose Ultralight Graphite
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Rider Weight Limit: 45 pounds per rider
- Stroller Weight: 22 pounds
Type
The Joovy Caboose Ultralight Graphite is an inline double stroller, but it is the most compact form of this category. Designed for children with slightly different ages, the younger baby can comfortably rest on the front seat, while the older one can either stand behind him or sit down when he needs to rest. Despite it being a double stroller, it is not recommended for twins.
Ease of Use
This stroller folds in 3 easy steps but requires two hands and a bend to do so. Once folded, it doesn’t self-stand but it can be locked manually.
You can put the brake on the hind wheels with one simple push of a foot-lever. The front seat can be easily reclined in 3 positions, using one hand, if the backseat isn’t already taken. Unfortunately, it doesn’t lay flat, which is why this stroller isn’t suitable for newborns up to 3 months.
Comfort
The Joovy Caboose Ultralight stroller has a generously-sized canopy to protect your kids from the sun. Even the back seat is covered, but not on the sides. The back cover only works if your child isn’t standing on the platform. The canopy is small enough that you don’t need a peek-a-boo to monitor your children. There is not much padding on the seats.
Storage Space
The storage space underneath the stroller can only carry up to 5 pounds and isn’t that easy to access, although the sliding bench seat helps. There is an additional storage space on the handlebar, where parents can store their keys, phone, and two bottles, either for themselves or the babies. These pockets can also carry up to 5 pounds worth of weight and are more flexible, due to the neoprene material. A third storage tray located on the front seat can also hold 2 sippies and some small accessories.
Build
The stroller is engulfed in a durable canvas, but it does have the occasional exposed hemstitching that could chafe or snag the child. Besides the handlebar being straight, which can cause discomfort to the wrist after long strolls, the umbrella-styled frame of the stroller is sturdy.
The wheels are made of plastic and feel kind of stiff.
Safety Features
The front seat of the Caboose has a 5-point harness system, while the rear seat has a 3-point harness system. The harness material is soft which offers extra comfort for the two small passengers. The seats have adjustable straps for extra comfort and safety.
Value
While this is not the cheapest stroller on our list, consider dividing the price by two. For a double stroller with multiple storage compartments and sturdy yet compact build, the value is more than fair.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Good-sized canopy to protect both children from the sun
- Harness material is soft and comfortable
- Easy to put the brakes on the hind wheels
- Plenty of storage spaces
Cons
- Not recommended for twins or newborns under 3 months of age
- Not easily foldable
- Main storage space is hard to access and doesn’t support much weight
- Handlebar is straight and may cause fatigue after too much usage
5. Best for Jogging: Toddler Trend Expedition Jogger Stroller
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Rider Weight Limit: 50 pounds
- Stroller Weight: 23.6 pounds
Type
As the title suggests, the Baby Trend Expedition is a jogging stroller. It is ideal to use while you’re out exercising in the park and taking your little one with you for some well-deserved movement. You can also opt for the Baby Trend Expedition travel system, which includes a car seat, a car set frame, and every feature that this stroller offers, but with more options for transportation and disassembly.
Ease of Use
Due to the large wheels jogging strollers have, they are usually heavier than those in the lightweight category. However, this stroller almost weighs as much as some of the lightweight ones, which makes it easy to maneuver, fold, and to carry.
When folded, the stroller can self-stand, and it can fit inside the trunk of your car, or even smaller places if you remove the front wheel (which is easy to do). The stroller can be reclined using just one hand.
Comfort
The handlebar has a comfortable and sturdy rubber grip that allows you to jog or run with it. The canopy is not very large but can cover most of your baby, and it even has a peek-a-boo window.
The reclinable seat has enough padding to make it comfortable during jogs or while you run errands, but it is not recommended for taller children since the leg rest is fixed. For extra comfort, accessories like bug nets, rain covers, and extra padding can be purchased separately.
Storage Space
For a jogging stroller, the storage space underneath is generous and can hold up to 5 pounds in weight. More than that would render the stroller hard to maneuver when jogging. Underneath the handlebars, there is an extra covered storage compartment and two cup holders for the parent, whereas the removable child’s snack tray also has two separate cup holders.
Build
This stroller has a sturdy steel frame that makes it one of the most dependable strollers on our list. Although it is not a good idea to expose the baby to terrains that are too rough, the wheels and the stroller itself can handle all types of surfaces. However, this type of stroller does not have wheel suspension.
Safety Features
The front wheel swivels for ease of use, but can also be locked into place for smooth rides. The same goes for the two back wheels, which have two individual brake pedals that need to be pressed to park.
The seat has a 5-point harness system to give the toddler a snug fit, as well as a tether strap to always keep the stroller at arm’s length. This will prevent the stroller from taking off while you are jogging.
Value
This is the best-priced jogging stroller on the market, and it doesn’t take too long to set up. The manual may be a bit difficult to follow, so here is a short instructional video on how to set it up. The travel system option is equally fair-priced, so depending on how you’ll be using the stroller, both options are optimal for your budget.
Pros
- Affordable and lightweight for a jogging stroller
- Plenty of storage space and compartments
- Fully-reclinable seat with good padding
- Canopy has peek-a-boo window
- Wheels are suitable for any terrain
- Has a tether to keep the stroller with you at all times
Cons
- No suspension on wheels
- Not suitable for taller babies due to fixed leg rest
- Canopy is not large
6. Best Under $50: Jeep North Star Stroller
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Rider Weight Limit: 40 pounds
- Stroller Weight: 10 pounds
Type
The Jeep North Star Stroller falls in the lightweight category. It also has a good-sized canopy, which also makes it an umbrella stroller.
Ease of Use
Due to its thin frame and compactness, it can fit into tight spaces, especially when it is folded.
Folding does require bending over and laying it on the ground, as it does not self-stand. The wheels work best on flat surfaces, as they are quite small but easy to move around.
Comfort
The J-shaped handlebars are padded with foam for extra comfort while pushing it around. The canopy is very generously sized and it even has a pop-out for maximum protection from the sun. It would’ve been perfect if the canopy also had a peek-a-boo window. Unfortunately, the seat is not reclinable, which makes napping difficult. The leg rest is fixed, which may cause some discomfort due to its inflexibility.
Storage Space
The Jeep Brand North Star might have a tiny storage basket underneath, but it makes up in storage space with a removable bag, made of fabric, that can be hung on the handlebar behind the canopy. That’s where you’ll also find a cup holder.
Build
The frame of the stroller feels a little thin, but it can hold a hefty amount of weight, and it is durable. The wheels are made of plastic and not made to withstand rough terrain.
Safety Features
Each of the two rear wheels has a brake pedal that you can push to park the stroller. It can be challenging to push both of them down if you’re wearing flip-flops. The two front wheels swivel, but can also lock into place if you’re experiencing bumpier rides.
Value
This is the most affordable lightweight stroller on our list, and it is by far the cheapest-looking one. It comes almost completely assembled out of the box so you won’t experience any difficulty putting it together. All you have to do is pop the wheels on it.
Pros
- Affordable
- Lightweight
- Extra removable storage bag
- Large canopy
- Comfortable handlebar
Cons
- Could use more padding on the seat
- The seat doesn’t recline
- Wheels not suitable for rough terrain
- Small storage space underneath the seat
7. Best Reversible: Jeep Unlimited Stroller
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Rider Weight Limit: 50 pounds
- Stroller Weight: 20.9 pounds
Type
The Jeep Unlimited is a full-sized stroller that can also be used as a travel system. You can easily switch from monitoring your baby as you maneuver the stroller, to the toddler facing the rest of the world in front of you.
Ease of Use
Reversing the handle can be achieved with one simple flip, without causing any disturbance to your little one. It can be folded into a compact size, which makes it convenient to store away.
Comfort
This stroller features an effective all-weather canopy. This canopy offers your baby a full UPF 50+ coverage on hot days, as well as protection against wind or rain in colder climates. The seat can recline in 3 positions, but not completely flat. One of the positions is straight up, which may be uncomfortable for a newborn who isn’t fully used with that position yet.
Storage Space
The stroller has a spacious storage basket underneath, where you can fit any baby necessities and more. It also has a removable snack tray with some extra storage space and a built-in cup holder for his bottle or yours.
Build
Although the frame isn’t as shock absorbent as other strollers, it has an adapter that can easily fit any of the following car seats:
- Snug Ride
- Graco Click Connect 30, 35, 40
- Evenflo Nurture
- Evenflo Embrace
These car seats can be purchased separately.
Safety Features
There are two pairs of wheels in the front that can either be set to swivel for a comfortable ride or locked into place. The two wheels in the back can be easily set to park the stroller, and both front and back wheels are shock-absorbent. The wheels are suitable for rough terrains as well as smooth surfaces. The seat has a 5-point harness that keeps the toddler snuggly within his seat.
Value
For a stroller that costs below $100, you get your money’s worth. This great and versatile budget value can be used as a travel system or a flexible full-sized stroller, with many comfort features that make your experience effortless.
Pros
- Affordable and lightweight for this type of stroller
- Shock-absorbing wheels
- Reversible handle
- Compatible with car seats
- Good storage space
- UPF 50+ canopy
Cons
- Only three reclining seat positions, none of them flat
- The frame is not very durable
- Only one cup holder for the whole stroller
8. Best Double Tandem Stroller: Graco DuoGlider
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Rider Weight Limit: 40 pounds
- Stroller Weight: 29.5 pounds
Type
The Graco DuoGlider is a tandem double stroller, meaning your two little ones will be riding one behind the other, in a single file line. This type of double stroller takes up less space on a sidewalk and can fit through doors as easily as a single standard-sized stroller.
Ease of Use
The double stroller weighs under 30 pounds, which, if divided by two, means less than 15 pounds per stroller. This lightweight double stroller is easily foldable into an even more storage-friendly size, but it doesn not self-stand when folded. Due to its lightweight, it can be folded, carried, stored, and even maneuvered with just one hand.
Comfort
This stroller has a fixed padded handlebar that makes it easy to maneuver in crowded or tight spaces. Both seats have extra padding on them and they can recline in multiple positions. Each seat has an adjustable and removable medium-sized canopy that blocks out the sun from your children’s eyes.
Storage Space
Each of the two seats on the Graco DuoGlider has a snack tray with 2 cup holders This stroller comes with cup holders, ample storage spaces, and a parent’s tray that comes with storage as well. There is plenty of space underneath to store diaper bags and other essentials for both babies, although it is a little difficult to access when the seats are reclined. On top of the rear seat, there is also a closed storage space for parents to place their valuables in, as well as a cup holder.
Build
Graco always delivers some of the most durable strollers on the market. The high-density rubber wheels have good traction, although they don’t perform very well on bumpy terrains like gravel or dirt paths. The fabric on the seats is durable and designed to withstand multiple spills.
Safety Features
The front wheels swivel and can also be locked into place. The back wheels have a two-pedal brake/park system. The six wheels on the stroller have good suspension, making every ride comfortable for both you and the baby.
Value
This stroller costs as much as some of the single strollers on our list, but you pay for a double stroller, which is quite a bargain. The assembly instructions on the manual are clear, and Graco even offers a one-year warranty on the stroller.
Pros
- Affordable
- Durable build
- Good storage space
- Lightweight
- Compatible with Click Connect car seats
Cons
- Not suitable for rough terrain
- Handlebars are not adjustable
- Doesn’t self-stand once folded
9. Best Travel System: Safety 1st Smooth Ride Travel System
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Rider Weight Limit: 50 pounds (35 pounds when used as a car seat)
- Stroller Weight: 32 pounds
Type
The Safety 1st Smooth Ride is a travel system. Aside from being used as a stroller, it also comes with an onBoard 35 Infant Car Seat, which can be attached to the stroller, so you can place the baby directly in the car without any hassle.
Ease of Use
The wheels of the Safety 1st Smooth Ride Travel System make the stroller easy to maneuver and handle corners well. The onBoard 35 Infant Car Seat is easy to attach or remove from the stroller, but you have to check twice that the quick click system worked. Folding the stroller and putting it in your car only requires one move: pulling the carrier up.
Comfort
The large canopy on both the stroller and the car seat will protect your baby from the sun. The stroller’s canopy has a pop-out visor for extra protection and a peek-a-boo window to monitor your child at all times.
The seats are made of soft fabrics, and the car seat has extra padding to make your toddler feel like an oyster in a protective shell. It can recline in 3 positions, allowing the car seat base to be attached. However, it doesn’t recline to a flat position.
Storage Space
The Safety 1st Smooth Ride Travel System has one of the largest storage spaces underneath the baby’s seat. It allows you to place everything you need underneath without any difficulty of access. Additionally, it has a removable child’s tray and a parent console, both equipped with three cupholders in total.
Build
The stroller has a sturdy frame to support the lightweight onBoard 35 Infant Car Seat, which is also suitable for an airplane seat. The wheels are made of plastic, so they are not suitable for dirt or rough terrain, but if you find yourself using it in such circumstances, make sure you remove the debris from them as soon as you get home.
Safety Features
Not only is this travel system JPMA-certified but it even exceeds the American Society for Testing and Materials’ (ASTM) criteria for safety. Both of the brakes on the hind wheels can be pressed even if you’re wearing flip-flops. The stroller seat has a 5-point harness to keep the baby snuggly inside. The car seat has extra padding around the head and back support for a comfortable but safe fit, as well as side impact protection.
Value
The value for these two items (the stroller and the extra car seat) has mercy on your wallet. Aside from these two durable items, included in this fair price is a 1-year limited warranty.
Pros
- Generous storage
- Folds easily
- Lightweight
- Comes with an easily attachable onBoard 35 Infant Car Seat
- Features increased protection
Cons
- The car seat is a bit narrow
- Attaching the latches to the travel system requires double-checking
- The seat doesn’t fully recline
- Not suitable for rough terrain
10. Best Lightweight Travel System: Graco Verb Stroller
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Rider Weight Limit: 50 pounds
- Stroller Weight: 20 pounds
Type
The Graco Verb is a lightweight stroller, but you can also turn it into a travel system. It attaches securely to any Graco Click Connect infant car seat. It can also be purchased as a travel system, which means you also get the extra matching car seat.
Ease of Use
Due to its lightness, it can be easily maneuvered and folded with just one hand. It even has a built-in carrying strap to make transportation simple. If you need a travel system, you can either opt for the Graco Snug Ride Click Connect Infant car seat or any other Graco infant seat. They are all compatible with the Graco Verb stroller.
Comfort
The canopy on the Graco Verb is not very big, but it will manage to protect most of your child’s body from the sun. Once it is folded, the stroller self-stands, which means you can multitask effortlessly. You can recline the seat into multiple positions, so your little one can enjoy a nap while you’re on the move.
Storage Space
This stroller has a very roomy storage basket underneath the baby’s seat. You can store diaper bags, shopping bags, and even your own purse in the basket. It also has a toddler tray that pivots to the side and includes 2 cup holders. Beneath the handlebars, there is a parent console that also includes 2 cup holders.
Build
The Graco Verb stroller is very durable and suitable for all sorts of terrains. The wheels have an increased suspension to make the stroller easier to use, and the front wheels can either swivel or lock when you stray from the smooth path. With the added suspension on the wheels, you can even take a detour on bumpier paths.
Safety Features
If you attach the car seat to the stroller, you just need to hear the loud *click.” You can keep an eye on your baby, as the car seat is facing you. The back wheels can be parked by using the foot-operated brake system.
Value
The stroller is priced just above the average price for a lightweight stroller. The features it comes with will more than make up for what you spend, and you might even be better off purchasing the whole travel system. The two items come at a good value, and the included SnugRide 30 Infant Car Seat is one of the best car seats on the market anyway.
Pros
- Click-Connect to your preferred car seat
- Wheels are suitable for all-terrain
- Large storage basket
- Self-stands when folded
Cons
- Canopy isn’t big
- The buckling system can be faulty
- Wheels are made of plastic, which are less durable than rubber wheels
Buying the Best Stroller for a Limited Budget
Choosing the right stroller means making every day easier. You will be doing the shopping, the visits to the park, the exercise, the daily errands, so the stroller should only make these things smoother for you. A stroller that is too cheap and too light can make things even harder if it isn’t stable and falls apart, or causes discomfort till the baby starts crying. Since there are many types of strollers, it is important to determine which one is most suitable for you.
Types of Strollers
There are different types of strollers for different daily activities, environments, age groups, and budgets. Here are the most common ones:
Lightweight
Often referred to as “umbrella stroller,” this is the lightest and most compact type of stroller. It is also the least expensive type. A lightweight stroller is easy to carry, fold, store, and maneuver. It usually has a thin frame that may feel a bit flimsy, but it will hold your child and other accessories you may store underneath the seat, no problem.
Standard
Also referred to as a “single” or “full-size” stroller, it is a bit heavier, less compact, and more expensive, but it has more features. Standard strollers are more durable and suitable for most situations and terrains. They take up more space, but if you’re looking for a stable stroller that will last you a long time, consider investing in one of these.
Travel System
If you have a car and don’t want the hassle of always transferring your baby from the stroller into his car seat, travel systems are the solution. They use car seats as the base of a stroller, which you can easily attach or remove, to make the transition into the car seamless, without even waking up the baby.
Travel systems are more expensive since you are getting two items to carry your baby in, but some are sold only as simple strollers, with the option of upgrading to a travel system by purchasing a compatible car seat. Such is the case with the Graco Verb Stroller.
Jogging Strollers
If you think that your exercise days are over now that you have the baby, a jogging stroller comes to the rescue. It is suitable for all sorts of rough surfaces, as the wheels are almost like bike wheels and have great suspension and maneuverability. Jogging strollers have three wheels (two in the back, one in the front), so they are a bit bulky, but they have everything you need for outdoor purposes.
Double Strollers
If you have two children and need to bring them both along, you don’t need to buy two separate strollers. Buying a double stroller can save you money and provide additional comfort in your daily tasks. There are three types of double strollers.
Side-by-side double strollers feel more natural in maneuvering but are tougher to fit through doors, crowds, and tight spaces.
Sit-and-stand double strollers, such as the Joovy Caboose, are ideal if your kids have different ages and one of them can already stand on their own.
Double tandem strollers like the Graco DuoGlider are just as easy to store and fit through doors as a single stroller, but it can feel like you’re waiting in a line with two other people in front of you, which makes monitoring the baby in the front a bit difficult.
Criteria to Consider
Here are some of the most important aspects you should assess about your living situation, in regards to your baby’s stroller needs:
Toddler’s age
Strollers have harness systems and are height-adjustable, but they do have weight limits. If you just gave birth, you should look for a stroller that can recline completely flat, such as the Summer Infant 3D Lite Convenience, as newborns don’t have the ability to hold up their heads for upward positions.
Some strollers can grow with your baby all the way through toddlerhood, but sometimes you have to go through more than one stroller until you reach that point.
Budget
There is an overwhelming amount of accessories to consider and save up for when you have a new baby, but the stroller should be one of the main ones. If you’re on a tight budget, there are some really dependable strollers on our list that you can get for $60 or under, such as the Kolcraft Cloud Plus Lightweight or the Jeep North Star.
If you have two newborns and are looking at double strollers, divide that price in two to have an idea about what you would pay per single stroller. The most high-end strollers are not necessarily the best, but you have to be efficient and opt for the most durable, comfortable, and safe budget options, leaving some money aside for add-ons you may want for the stroller along the way, such as separate car seats, weather shields, adapters, or different tray tables.
Use
If you live in the city or the suburbs and that’s where you’ll be using the stroller the most, you don’t have to worry about rough terrain safety features like wheel suspension. If you just need it for a vacation with your little one, don’t look for too many extra features you won’t be using in the long haul.
If you don’t have a car, you can already cross out the travel system options that also come with car seats. If you need a stroller for jogging, you shouldn’t look at any other category besides jogging strollers. Strollers differ in build and features, so decide which type is best for your lifestyle.
Comfort
A stroller should be just as comfortable for you as for the baby. Depending on what type of stroller you’re going for, try to play out what a day in your life would look like, if you had to carry a stroller anywhere.
You’d need some storage space for the baby’s necessities as well as some extra for your shopping bags, purse, phone, keys, wallet. You would also need cup holders, for their sippy cups or for a bottle of water to keep you hydrated during the day. Some strollers come with as many as 4 cup holders, others with only one.
Reclining chairs are also important, as some can recline in a flat position which makes it easy to change diapers on the go.
Canopies are important if you know your baby will be exposed to the sun for a big part of the day. Some canopies are larger and can cover your child’s entire body, others have pop-outs or are UPF 50+ protective or suitable for rain and wind too. Other add-ons can either be purchased, or are built-in the stroller, depending on the type.
Ease of Use
What good is it to have comfort features, when the stroller itself is tough to handle? Weight, dimensions, how easily it folds, if it self-stands, how much space it takes when stored, maneuverability are all decisive factors in what makes a good stroller for you.
Next time you are in the store, try out a few strollers and see how you handle each type. Place a melon in the baby’s seat to simulate the weight that you have to push around. Or just ask anyone you see with a stroller. It won’t be weird. They probably did the same before committing.
Cheap Toddler Stroller FAQ
Are cheap strollers safe?
Yes. Look for strollers that are JPMA-certified. Most dependable big brands make JPMA-certified strollers. Some strollers have a better build than others (even if they are lightweight), but wobbly doesn’t necessarily feel bad. Just make sure you don’t use something too lightweight on a surface that is too bumpy and dirty. Brakes are also important, make sure you purchase a stroller with a convenient brake system for your foot and footwear choice. Most strollers on our list all come with 5-point harness systems to keep the baby in place. And if you’re opting for a lightweight umbrella stroller, go for one that also has a peek-a-boo window, so you can watch the baby through it at all times while you are pushing the stroller.
Are strollers easy to clean?
Yes. If you’re on vacation and you encounter a dirt path, or if on your way home, your baby spills his bottle, strollers are bound to get dirty in time. All you have to do is clean the fabric and the frame.
Fabric can be removed from the stroller using a screwdriver to remove the bolts that hold it down. Use a brush or a vacuum to remove the debris. If the seat and canopy are detachable, they are suitable for washing machines. Use a gentle cycle and avoid the dryer. If the seat and canopy aren’t removable, you can use soap, water, and even a hose to clean them. After you’re done with all of that, dry out the fabric in the sun.
The frame has to be disassembled before it is cleaned with brushes and all-purpose cleaners. Use a WD-40 to spray the brakes if you feel they’re getting sticky. After you’re done, spray the stroller with disinfectant and always store it somewhere at room temperature, so that it will last you as long as possible.
Happy Trails!
Now that you know some great options for strollers that won’t break the bank, we hope you feel more equipped for your next adventure with your baby. By shopping around and comparing your options, you’ll ensure the best mix of features and affordability.