Updated January, 2022
I was super anti-stroller before I had a baby. I didn’t want a stroller, I was sure I didn’t need a stroller. I was going to carry my little one in a wrap everywhere instead of pushing them around in a stroller. I ended up being glad I had a stroller. It was great for all day outings such as conventions and going to the zoo. Also, great for throwing all our stuff in if the baby wasn’t in it.
So even though I was super anti-stroller, it ended up being an item I really needed. Below is my review of some of the better stroller items. For those looking early, I specifically recommend a car seat stroller all in one.
A.K.A. The Travel System
The travel system has become increasingly popular. The idea is that you purchase your car seat, base, and stroller all at the same time and add it up for significant savings. This is the perfect type of purchase for individuals who know they are going to want all three of these items.The other nice thing is that often these strollers have the ability to clip the infant car seat right into them so you have an easy stroller for the early stages.
You likely already know that I am a big fan of the Graco brand. It’s never failed me yet. So the Graco Modes Element Travel System is my suggestion for this type of stroller. I love that you can adjust it so your baby is facing towards you or away from you. That versatility comes in handy in the beginning. Plus, you get to keep with the Graco car seat, which continues to be my recommended car seat.
Large Strollers
So I actually didn’t purchase a travel system with my first child. See previously noted confidence that I would never use one. So we had a lovely, separate, kind of huge stroller for Monster. It was nice enough at the time, but kind of bulky, which doesn’t really fit into my minimalist lifestyle. Also, heavy, and as a single mama I don’t have anyone but me to load that puppy in and out of my car.
These days, strollers don’t have to be big and bulky. As a result, I have two suggestions for this category.
My first suggestion is Graco Modes Pramette Stroller. This stroller is light weight and folds up relatively small. I also love that it carries up to 50 pounds, which means even Monster, at 4 years old, can still use it.
My second suggestion is by Kolcraft. This stroller is a little bulkier when it folds up, but it isn’t super heavy. More importantly, it’s affordable, which can be HUGE for some of us. If you have a tight budget, there is no compelling reason to run out and buy a $200 stroller. This one is perfectly fine.
Jogging Stroller
Alright Fit Mamas, if you’ve ever tried jogging with a standard stroller, you know that it just isn’t built for it. Personally, I struggle with my feet always being in the wrong spot. Let alone how awkward the steering can be. A standard stroller just isn’t meant for jogging.
Make it easier by investing in a jogging stroller. Now my experience with jogging strollers is less diverse, mostly because I don’t have one. I’ve only ever tried a handful that belong to friends. Still, I rather like the Jeep Classic Jogging Stroller. I really loved that the Graco Snugride car seat could fit into it. Also, while not the most important, I really like how it looks.
Click In Strollers
I will admit, I had one Chicco travel system gifted to me and I actually LOVED the stroller attachment. It obviously wouldn’t work once Sprinkle grew out of their infant car sear, but the fact that it was just the frame was where it was for me.
See, the click in stroller is just that. A click in for your infant’s car seat. No bell or whistles, admittedly no room to grow. But incredibly light weight and it doesn’t take up much space. I really loved the Chicco KeyFit Caddy for its simplicity.
Umbrella Strollers
Okay, when it comes to the long game, umbrella strollers are where it is at for me. Yes, the big strollers, the travel systems, all that jazz is great when they are really little. But from 1 year up to 50 pounds, this stroller is my preference. It’s small, light, folds up incredibly well, the works.
Personally, we got the Jeep Umbrella Stroller. We were in Japan shortly after Monster had turned 1 and realized we couldn’t carry them all day. Options were limited, but this stroller has lasted well through Sprinkle turning 3 and seen a ton of use. Warning, if buying last minute in another country, you may end up paying waaaaaay more than it actually costs.
