Pushchairs and Strollers

A lightweight pushchair is considered as being a pushchair that can be easily handled and picked up for transportation and assembly with a weight of no more than 8Kg. Any more than this would be classified as not being a 'lighweight' pushchair. A lightweight pushchair based on it's weight can be classified as a 'main' pushchair as long as the pushchair is rated to be used for newborns with a layflat feature. Lightweight pushchairs that are used as a 'main' pushchair do not have the same level of suspension and can have difficulty being pushed over bumpy and uneven terrain due to the size of the wheels used on lightweight or compact pushchairs. In normal circumstances children approximately upto the age of 4 years can use a lightweight pushchair. It is important to understand that when looking at purchasing a lightweight pushchair the wheels are of sufficient quality (i.e. PU based) and that the pushchair is not designed with pneumatic wheels due to the risk of puncture. Furthermore, it is also advised to look at how easily the lightweight pushchair assembles and dis-assembles with many now operating an 'Auto-Fold' mechanism. Finally, some lightweight pushchairs also come with added benefits which include carry bags, cup holders and rain covers.

A compact pushchair should not weigh no more than 8Kg as this will then be classified as a standard pushchair.

A compact pushchir is a lightweight, space saving pushchair that can fold down into a smaller size for easy transportation and storage. Compact pushchairs are useful for holidays, travel, city trips and everyday use. It is important to keep in mind when purchasing a compact pushchair the overall size when the compact pushchair is collapsed as this needs to be as small as possible so that it can fit into a boot of a car or overhead locker on an aeroplane. It is is also an advantage of choosing the correct compact pushchair that allows 'one-hand' folding as this is particualrly useful when collapsing the compact pushchair with baby in hand. One thing to keep in mind that a compact pushchair will have a smaller seat compared to that of a standard pushchair due to it's size.

The difference between a lightweight and compact pushchair is the fact that a lightweight pushchair is not always small when collapsed. The difference between the two are similar, however a lightweight pushchair can also require more space as they are not always compact. Lightweight pushchairs are also great for quick trips to the shops, whereas the compact pushchair is great for travel and space saving. Both should be designed for ease of carry, especially when collapsing for storage or travel.

Yes, a lightweight pushchair can be suitable as your main pushchair. However, it is important to note that the lightweight pushchair really needs features such as; a comfortable and supportive seat, a secure five point safety harness, a good recline that is simple to use, a practical storage basket, good manoeuvrability and a well designed durable frame in order for you and your child to travel in comfort with little or no distress. It is also important to note that the wheels on a lightweight or compact pushchair are usually smaller and will effect the quality of travel due to the wheel size and quality of suspension. Travelling over terrain such as gravel, sand, grass and stones will be more difficult than that of using a standard pushchair or travel system that use larger wheels and have a better suspension due to their size.

Yes, a lightweight pushchair can be used from birth, however it would be advisable to not use a lightweight pushchair within the first 4 weeks. It is important that the lightweight pushchair has a layflat feature, good head support and a good 5 point safety harness as this is required for a newborn baby so that muscular development and safety is not compromised. Some lightweight pushchairs are NOT suitable for babies from birth and therefore it is recommended to contact the manufacturer and/or retailer for guidance.

The best lightweight pushchair for a newborn should be suitable from birth and provide a safe, supportive lie-flat position or compatible newborn carrycot. It is important to look for a lightweight, easy fold (ideally one-handed), compact design with a secure 5 point safety harness. A comfortable recline and sun protection is also important in order to allow your baby to be comfortable with no distress. Suspension is also important as this provides better comfort for your baby when travelling over vrious terrains. It is advised to use PU wheels that are puncture resistant that also provide longevity without having to replace these over time.

The best lightweight pushchair for travelling would involve the pushchair being lightweight, easy to fold and small when folded, whilst still providing comfort, safety and practical storage. Features such as; a reclinable seat, a good sun canopy, compact fold and easy manoeuvrability are essential for a good pushchair for travelling. Many questions are also asked with regards to 'airport compatibility'. Many pushchairs both lightweight and compact adhere to airline cabin baggage requirements, however many airlines now invoke their own requirements with regards to allowing pushchairs to be allowed as 'cabin baggage'. It is therefore advisable to contact the airline prior to travel in order to check the pushchair meets the airlines cabin baggage requirements.

Yes, most airlines allow you to take a pushchair when travelling with a baby or young child, although the size, weight and storage rules vary. A lightweight, compact pushchair can make airport travel a lot easier, and some travel pushchairs may be suitable for cabin storage. It is advisable to check with the airline prior to travel whether the pushchair will be accepted as cabin baggage. Should the airline not accept the pushchair as cabin baggage, the airline will most likely advise the pushchair will be included within the cargo hold.

Yes, a compact pushchair will fit into a small car boot. Compact pushchairs are designed for specifically this allowing the user to easily collapse the pushchair and transfer into the car boot. It is advised prior to purchasing a compact pushchair to research the overall size of the pushchair so that to ascertain the size will be ok for your car boot. There are many compact pushchairs on the market all with differing sizes, specifications and features, and therefore it is advised to research these in order to identify which is the right one for you. It is also important to understand that the smaller the compact pushchair the smaller the seat unit, so there has to be a compromise between the overall size of the pushchair in relation to the seat unit size.

Each lightweight pushchair is designed differently from various manufacturers which can effect the ease of fold. There are various types of fold for lightweight pushchairs ranging from multiple folds to Auto-Folds which in essence allows the user to fold a lightweight pushchair using one hand in seconds. It is advised to research the types of fold prior to purchasing a lightweight pushchair in order to ensure the correct lightweight pushchair is best for you. The most popular lightweight pushchair folds involve the automatic fold (Auto-Fold) as these are very simple to use and use less actions in order to fold the pushchair without any difficulty.

Lightweight pushchairs are not really suitable for uneven pavements due to their wheel size, suspension, weight and durability of the frame. Due to the lightweight pushchair sizes and weight, the seat unit would also provide an uncomfortable ride when travelling on uneven pavements. It would be advisable to use a travel system than a lightweight pushchair as travel systems are built for all terrain with enhanced suspension and larger wheels which assist in ride comfort.

Due to their size, lightweight pushchairs do have limited storage, however the storage basket within the lightweight pushchair should be able to hold items such as; changing bags, at least one large shopping bag, nappies and baby essentials, snacks and drinks, toys, a lightweight jacket, and various items of clothing. Because lightweight pushchairs are designed to be compact and easy to fold, their storage baskets are often smaller than those of travel systems. If storage is important, look for a lightweight model with a large, easy accessible basket, additional pockets or a parent organiser.

Yes, a lightweight pushchair is suitable for everyday use. It is impoertant to look for models with a comfortable seat, durable wheels that will not puncture, good suspension, useful storage, and a sturdy frame. A lightweight pushchair is particular convenient for parents who regularly use public transport, travel by car or need a compact pushchair for everyday journeys.

However, when travelling over terrain such as; cobbles, grass, gravel or uneven surfaces, a travel system would be the better option as this will provide a more smooth and comfortable ride.

No, you do not necessarily require a lightweight pushchair if you already have a travel system, but a lightweight pushchair can be a useful second pushchair. A travel system is usually a larger system that can cope better with terrain such as gravel, grass, cobbles to that of the lightweight pushchair and is ideal for everyday use, longer walks and carrying your child from birth.

A lightweight pushchair can be a complement to your travel system as the lightweight pushchair is easier to carry and lift, more compact which is perfect for travel and holidays, easier to use on public transport, quicker to fold and store at home, and useful for toddlers who do not require the full features of using a travel system.

If you have a travel system that is compact and lightweight, then you may not require a lightweight pushchair, however if you travel frequently and/or find your travel system bulky, then a lightweight pushchair can be a convenient second option.

Yes, ideally as more than not you will be lifting it in and out of cars, carrying it through airports and navigating stairs.

A travel pushchair with a carry handle or carry strap will make it much easier. A dedicated handle or carry strap will allow you to lift and transport your pushchair more comfortably. making it particular useful for holidays, airports, public transport and getting in and out of cars.

Yes, a travel bag is useful especially when taking your lightweight pushchair on holidays or public transport. A travel bag is particularly useful should the lightweight pushchair needs to go into a cargo hold of an aeroplane as this will provide some protection for your pushchair as well as keeping the pushchair clean during travel.

It is important to ensure when purchasing a lightweight pushchair that a carry bag is included as this will ensure the carry bag perfectly fits the pushchair and that the carry bag has a carry strap or carry handle to aid when carying the lightweight pushchair.

Yes, it is advisable to check your lightweight pushchair before travelling in order to ensure it is safe and secure and ready for travel. It is important to check the brakes, wheels, safety harness, frame, folding mechanism, seat recline and canopy for any signs of wear and tear or damage. If you are travelling by air and that your pushchair has been included in the cargo hold, it is advisable to immediately check the pushchair as soon as you collect this to ensure no damage has taken place.

Yes, a sun canopy is required for your pushchair especially if the pushchair is to be used on holidays, summer days or longer outdoor trips.

It is advantageous that an 'extendable' sun canopy is also present as this will provide even more coverage in which to shade your child from harmful UV rays, and to ensure your child is comfortable.

It is also good to note to look for a sun canopy that has a 'multi-layered' fabric design (i.e. outer fabric with an inner fabric) as this will also assist to shade your child even more from UV rays.

Yes, swivel and lockable wheels are useful for a lightweight pushchair as this provides easier manoeuvrability to navigate airports, shops and uneven surfaces. Swivel and lockable wheels are also useful for tighter turns especially is you are using your pushchair in crowded areas.

One of the main advantages for purchasing a lightweight pushchair with swivel and lockable wheels is the advantage of locking the wheels to assist when pushing your pushchair on uneven ground such as; grass, gravel, cobbles and sand as the lockable wheels will not swivel and cause the pushchair to lock whilst pushing.

Yes, an adjustable handle can be useful especially if the pushchair is used by parents or carers with different heights, however it is not necessarily essential. An adjustable handle allows you to change the handle height for more comfortable positions especially useful when going on long walks or using the pushchair for everyday use.

However, an adjustable handle can sometimes add weight and/or bulk to a lightweight pushchair. If portability is the priority compare the folded size and weight alongside the handle adjustment prior to making the purchase.

Yes, durability is an important factor when choosing a lightweight pushchair. Look for a lightweight pushchair with a durable frame, reliable good quality wheels that will not puncture and not wear easily over time, a secure safety harness, and quality materials that can withstand regular use.

A good durable lightweight pushchair should offer a good balance between strength, safety, portability and easy manoeuvrability, making it easier for everyday use and family holidays.