Types of Strollers: Which One Do You Actually Need?
Full-size, compact, travel system, jogger or double: choose a group with real weights, seat ages and basket limits.
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Short answer
For one baby, start with a full-size stroller for walks from home or a compact for frequent lifts and car trips. Choose a travel system if you also need an infant car seat, a jogger for running, or a double when two children need regular seats.
Which type fits your day?
Start here if you want one stroller for daily walks and errands.
Full-size
Who should skip it Skip this list if two kids need seats. Also skip it if you run a lot, want a stroller sold with a car seat, or need a small one for the bus.
Start here if you drive and need both a stroller and an infant car seat. These come as a set.
Travel systems
Who should skip it Look at other types if you mostly use transit, need two seats, or plan to run.
Start here if you often take the bus, fly, or need to save trunk space.
Travel & umbrella
Who should skip it Look at other types if you need two seats, plan to run, or want a car seat and stroller set.
Start here if you plan to run with your stroller. Check the model’s age and use limits first.
Jogging
Who should skip it Skip this list if you only take short walks, you need a second seat, or you want a small travel stroller.
Start here if two kids, or twins, need a seat now.
Double
Who should skip it Skip this list if you have one child and might want a second seat later. Look at the single-to-double list for that.
Start here if you need one seat now and may add a second later.
Single-to-double
Who should skip it Skip this list if two kids already need seats, or if you won't add a seat.
Choose a group by the job it needs to do
For walks from home, begin with full-size strollers. For stairs and lots of car stops, begin with compacts. Running and carrying two children are separate needs that can move you into joggers or doubles before you compare anything else.
The numbers overlap more than the names suggest. A compact Minu V3 weighs 16.7 lb, the full-size Cruz V3 weighs 26.5 lb, and the Thule Urban Glide 3 jogger weighs 26.2 lb. A category points you toward a use; the exact model decides the lift.
Full-size or compact for one child?
Full-size strollers are a useful starting point when you want room for daily walks. The Cruz V3 has a reversible seat and a 30 lb basket limit. Those features have a clear purpose when you walk with a baby facing you and bring groceries home underneath.
Compact travel strollers give you smaller shapes to carry and store. The Minu V3 has a from-birth seat, a 20 lb basket limit and a standing one-hand fold. The Joolz Aer+ has an 11 lb basket limit and a seat that starts at 6 months, with a separate cot for earlier use.
Torn between big and small? Full-size versus lightweight walks through how to decide before you buy a large first stroller.
Four common stroller types: travel, full-size, jogging and double. Most families only need to choose between two or three.
A travel system adds the infant car seat
Travel systems pair a stroller and infant car seat. They are different from travel strollers, which are the compact group. The Chicco Bravo Trio includes a KeyFit 30 seat, while the Graco Modes Pramette includes a SnugRide LX.
A bundle is useful when you need and like both parts. If you already have an infant seat, compare separate parts before buying a bundle. Stroller versus travel system compares the whole purchase rather than just the first car transfer.
A jogger is for a running plan
Choose a jogging stroller if you want to run once your child meets its running rules. The BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 has an 8-month minimum for jogging and off-road use. Its seat can be used from 8 weeks for walking only.
A jogger can also earn its space on rough daily walks, even if you never run. Big air-filled tires make gravel and broken sidewalks much easier to push over.
Two children change the shape of the choice
Look at doubles for two regular riders and single-to-double models for one seat now with an option to add another. The Joovy Kooper X2 weighs 28 lb and is 30.3 in wide; the Zoe Twin V3 weighs 25 lb and is 30 in wide.
Compare the two-seat layouts with both children in mind. I'd pick the group first, then try two models through a doorway and into the car. The finder helps turn your daily needs into that short list.
Questions parents ask
Which type should a first-time parent start with?
Compare one compact and one full-size model for your daily route. Add the newborn parts each one needs before comparing cost.
Can one stroller cover everything?
It can cover most of your week if the size, seat and wheels suit you. Start there before buying another for rare trips.
About this page
Written by the My First Stroller team.
