The best compact cane strollers in the UK 2023

At the beginning of 2018, cane strollers account for 30% of the market share of childcare products in the UK. Even before baby arrives, this accessory is at the top of the birth list. Easy to fold, compact and light, they guarantee the comfort of your baby during your outings. Looking for the best compact stroller? It's all in this guide.

Nania - Orla city stroller 1
8/10

Best value for money

Nania - Orla city stroller

The best compact stroller

MacLaren offers this compact, reclining and easy-to-maneuver cane stroller. It is also very practical with its automatic folding function, storage basket, rear brakes and an adjustable footrest.

71,19 £ on Cdiscount

This multi-positional stroller is suitable for babies from 0 to 36 months or 15 kg. It has a light structure and a full suspension that will ensure maximum comfort for your baby. Weighing in at only 5 kg, it is perfectly suited for use in the city. Easy to handle, the Orla has an automatic folding mechanism that will simplify your life. On the safety side, the stroller's 5-point safety harness will keep your child securely in its seat.

Moreover, you will always have your child in your field of vision thanks to its canopy equipped with a small visor. The canopy is also made of a water-repellent fabric that protects baby from rain and water projections. Finally, the stroller is equipped with a guardrail at the level of your child's hands to avoid any accident. Safe and comfortable, the Orla stroller has everything to guarantee the well-being of your child.

Chicco London Up 2
7/10

Best value for money

Chicco London Up

The best entry-level compact stroller

Ideal from birth to 3 years old, this light and compact cane stroller is offered by Chicco in its London Up range.

62,39 £ on Amazon

Are you looking for a compact, quality and convenient stroller for your little one at a low price? The London Up Chicco model meets the criteria so sought after by parents: a comfortable, safe, compact and practical vehicle adapted to children from birth to 3 years old. In addition to a leg rest, the stroller has 4 reclining positions.

On the safety side, it has safety brakes, a 5-point safety harness and a padded roll bar. Weighing 7.2 kg, this childcare item is far from bulky and can be easily stored. Finally, you will be quickly won over by the accessories that come with it, namely its canopy, its rain cover and its basket.

MacLaren Quest Arc 3
8/10

Best value for money

MacLaren Quest Arc

The best high-end compact stroller

With the Quest Arc, your child will have a top-of-the-line stroller that will accompany him for a long time during all his outings from birth, especially thanks to its newborn safety system, and up to 25 kg.

176 £ on Amazon

Gone are the days of hard-to-carry and hard-to-handle strollers! MacLaren is part of the revolution in toddler-friendly vehicles with this model known as the Quest Arc stroller. Once folded, it easily fits in your car or in its cover to be transported with great ease. Designed for children from 6 months to 3 years old, it offers several positions that allow you to put baby in a sitting or reclining position. Its adjustable and extensible canopy offers UPF 50+ sun protection, combined with a rain cover and a shopping net. The excellent quality of this stroller is also reflected in its safety conditions via a 5-point harness and stop brakes.

Apart from that, the Quest is distinguished by its Newborn Safety System. A system that guarantees safety and comfort to the little ones. This is achieved by means of two pieces of fabric that fold down over the baby's head and feet, as if to form a sort of protective cocoon.

Poussette canne compacte Liteway 3 Chicco 4
7/10

A great choice

Poussette canne compacte Liteway 3 Chicco

Style, lightweight and functional

With its umbrella folding mode, the Liteway 3 Chicco stroller is easy to handle, while being functional for your daily or occasional trips with your baby.

95,35 £ on Amazon

The Chicco Liteway 3 stroller is recommended for parents who are looking for a functional, practical and light equipment for everyday use. Another advantage of this model is its modern and classic design, as well as being resistant to any challenge. Reclining in 3 positions, it is a comfortable vehicle for babies and children from 0 to 22 kg.

Parents will find it as convenient as their little one, as this compact 7.1 kg cane stroller is light, handy and easy to carry. Its sun visor is removable and extensible in 3 positions, and it comes with a basket and a rain cover.

Buying guide • November 2023

Best compact umbrella stroller

Any specific needs?

The best compact stroller

The best entry-level compact stroller

The best high-end compact stroller

Style, lightweight and functional

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Comparison table of the best compact cane strollers

TOP OF THE LINE CHEAP TOP OF THE LINE EXCELLENT
Nania - Orla city stroller 5
8/10
Chicco London Up 6
7/10
MacLaren Quest Arc 7
8/10
Poussette canne compacte Liteway 3 Chicco 8
7/10
OUR SELECTION
Nania - Orla city stroller
Chicco London Up
MacLaren Quest Arc
Poussette canne compacte Liteway 3 Chicco
MacLaren offers this compact, reclining and easy-to-maneuver cane stroller. It is also very practical with its automatic folding function, storage basket, rear brakes and an adjustable footrest.
Ideal from birth to 3 years old, this light and compact cane stroller is offered by Chicco in its London Up range.
With the Quest Arc, your child will have a top-of-the-line stroller that will accompany him for a long time during all his outings from birth, especially thanks to its newborn safety system, and up to 25 kg.
With its umbrella folding mode, the Liteway 3 Chicco stroller is easy to handle, while being functional for your daily or occasional trips with your baby.
Robust
All terrain
Can accommodate a baby from birth to 25 kg
Comfortable
Folds automatically and stands upright on its own when folded
Robust
Easy to carry thanks to its shoulder strap
Foldable, lightweight and compact
Multiple adjustable positions with straps, adjustable footrests and canopy with water-repellent fabric
Comfortable and has a large storage basket
Equipped with the Newborn Safety System guaranteeing safety and comfort for toddlers
Approved up to 22 kg (approximately 4 years old)
Plexi swivel wheels
Affordable stroller
Effectively protects baby from the wind thanks to a resistant raincover
Adjustable and reclining seat
Usable from birth
Safe and very easy to close
Easily adjustable handle in height
Many accessories included

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Buying guide - compact umbrella stroller

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How to choose your compact umbrella stroller

A compact stroller is the equipment you need to ensure your baby's comfort while you are out and about, but also at home. It will become your best ally for travelling, walking or keeping your little one by your side while you go about your business. However, to make the right choice in terms of compact stroller, some criteria are necessary... Here are some of them!

#1 - baby's needs

As a parent or future parent, you know that not all children grow in the same way. In fact, some grow faster than others, both in terms of weight and height. Rather than relying on universal references, select your compact stroller according to your little one's build.

Usually, this childcare equipment is preferred from 6 or 9 months of age, when baby starts to sit up properly. If this is the case for your little one, make sure that the compact stroller of your choice is spacious enough to serve him until he is 3 years old. In addition, there are also models that include a sitting or reclining position and are suitable for newborns up to a certain age. Finally, depending on your needs, there are compact double or triple cane strollers, designed to accompany parents of twins and triplets.

On the other hand, who says needs, also says uses! The main advantage of compact strollers is that they allow parents to move around with their child without difficulty. This can be for a trip, a vacation, a walk, shopping or a quick trip from one place to another. For more ease in handling, transporting and moving your cane stroller, opt for a prototype that aligns with your uses: all-terrain cane stroller, jogging, sports, city, etc.

#2 - comfort

To

choose a compact cane stroller, prioritize baby's comfort at all costs! Fortunately, childcare equipment designers are focusing more on ergonomics and comfort for toddlers. You'll find compact strollers of all kinds, from models with frames to models with seat boosters

. The goal? To make your baby feel more comfortable while you're out and about. You don't want your baby to be at the same height as the exhaust pipes, or on a seat that's too high, which could scare him while you're pushing him.

You'll also want to make sure that your child can lie down if they fall asleep during the ride, by choosing between reclining or semi-reclining

strollers. Also, to avoid possible back pain, good quality padding is a must.

The sturdiness of the suspensions should not be ignored; an option that, unfortunately, is not always available on entry-level models. In order to guarantee this issue of sturdiness, we advise you to turn to compact strollers of the middle or high range. Finally, the width of the wheels

also plays an important role in terms of comfort: it should not exceed 70 cm for more convenience.

#3 - safety

If there is

one thing that all parents look for in the equipment they acquire for their little ones, it is safety! Over the past few years, some brands have discounted the safety of their equipment at the expense of design. To make sure that the compact stroller you want to buy is safe for your little one, check that it meets the manufacturing standards. To do so, it must be marked "NFS 54001" for the French standard, and "EN 1888

" for the European standard. These standards guarantee, among other things, that the cane stroller in question is :

  • Stable
  • Equipped with a parking brake
  • Equipped with a harness or a safety belt
  • Has a folding system lock

#4 - Handling

Other than

the comfort of your baby, yours is also essential in choosing a compact cane stroller. Remember that this large childcare product is specially designed to facilitate travel with baby... Exit the bulky and heavy models, both for transport and storage. Go for something foldable and light. Generally, the classic cane strollers weigh 8 kg. Compact strollers are much lighter, weighing only 6 kg

, sometimes even 5.5 kg. So you will have no trouble carrying yours in a cover, even if you are on foot. In the car, there's no need to argue about it, as the compact stroller fits in a corner, without taking up all the space.

Still in terms of maneuverability, a convenient and quick folding system

is a must. Prefer compact cane strollers that can be folded and unfolded with one hand, as you'll most likely have to do it all by yourself with baby in your arms.

#5 - accessories

Did you know

that accessories are also essential to ensure your toddler's comfort, while in the stroller? Between therain cover, theparasol, the footmuff, the mosquito net, the storage pouch, the stroller hook and theplay arch, you have a real embarrassment of choice. If the quality of the padding on the handles and seat makes baby feel comfortable, these accessories will protect and entertain him. Most of them protect your baby from the sun, wind, spit-up and bugs. As for the others, you can use them to store his changing bag and his comforter. Finally, the play arch is the little extra for your little angel: he can have fun during the trip without you having to worry about misplacing a toy on the road.

The advantages of a compact stroller

Models suitable for any situation

Are you looking for a classic design that can be used for trips to the park or for shopping with your baby? Or are you looking for an extremely sturdy, all-terrain or sporty stroller? There's no doubt about it, the manufacturers have done what it takes to make sure you'll find the right fit! Among the long list of advantages of compact strollers, we appreciate the wide variety of models that exist. While some are simple and practical at the same time, other strollers are more functional. All you have to do is choose the one that best suits your needs and, of course, those of your baby!

Ideal for all your outings with baby

Compact strollers have been very successful over the years, as they are the greatest allies of nomadic parents. No more tiredness at the end of the day, because you had to carry your baby in your arms to buy groceries, to go to the office or to go around the place during your vacations. The compact stroller is made to accompany you wherever you go! In the car, you can slip it into the trunk or use it as a car seat. On foot, simply unfold it to use it or store it in its cover and carry it without difficulty if you want to keep baby in your arms for a while.

Ultra convenient

The popularity of parents for this type of stroller lies in the fact that it is equipped with several storage compartments. There's no need to carry around a changing bag when you have to push your baby in the stroller and make sure nothing slips out. In addition, the accessories that usually accompany it allow it to be used on all occasions. Whether it's windy or cold, hot or slightly chilly, the stroller has the necessary gadgets to protect your child.

Easy to handle and maneuver

Foldable and unfoldable as you like, the compact stroller is easy to handle. You don't need to be a genius to maneuver it, and you'll be able to do it with one hand over time. If you want to carry your little one in your arms, fold it lengthwise or widthwise and vice versa. Also, because of its size, adjustable handlebars and swivel wheels, it can easily weave in and out of traffic on the street or in the supermarket aisles.

Comfortable

The cane stroller is also designed to provide optimal comfort for your baby, suitable for a short walk or a long nap. To optimize its comfort, there are additional options such as reclining or raising seats.

Compact, light, but strong and safe

Once at home, the stroller unfolds and stores perfectly well without cluttering up the room in which it is stored. Despite this compactness and lightness, the stroller is appreciated for its unequalled solidity and sturdiness, guaranteeing a flawless use for a long time.

Baby carrier or compact stroller?

Between the baby carrier and the compact cane stroller, some parents often wonder which would be more practical on a daily basis. In addition to being less expensive, it is true that a baby carrier is less bulky than a compact stroller. All you have to do is put it on, and keep your little one against you wherever you go. It's a great compromise when you're taking public transportation or going to crowded places. However, it goes without saying that you'll have to bear the full weight of baby throughout the trip.

In contrast, with a compact stroller, you travel light. You have the necessities at hand, and you can take care of other things at the same time (filling your cart, cooking and working alongside your baby if you're staying home, etc.). On the other hand, you can rock baby to sleep, using the wheels. Finally, if you are going to a restaurant or having dinner with your family, there is nothing more practical! Indeed, with your baby in his compact stroller, you can enjoy your meal in peace, while keeping an eye on him.

Compact stroller or 3-wheel stroller?

Compact stroller

As the name suggests, the handle of this stroller is shaped like a cane. It is suitable for babies from 6 to 12 months. The cane stroller keeps the child safe. Even if he or she tends to get restless, he or she will not be able to climb over the frame. The advantage of this type of stroller is that it is light and compact. In addition, it is very practical when using public transport or moving around the city.

You can hold the buggy with one hand when the other is busy. On the other hand, it has a large hood that will protect baby from sunlight, wind and rain. This makes a compact stroller very versatile. The disadvantage of this stroller is that the back is fixed. This makes it impractical for children under 6 months of age (sleep is extremely important at this age).

3-wheel stroller

The number of wheels on a stroller can have an impact on how it moves. A 3-wheeled stroller has 2 large wheels at the back and a medium-sized wheel at the front. It is suitable for all types of terrain and easier to maneuver around tight corners. It has a locking function, which allows you to lock it in place while jogging, or rotate it while walking.

So, one of the main reasons to choose for a 3-wheeled stroller is that it is easy to push on bumpy or sandy ground. On the other hand, it is quite bulky and heavier compared to other strollers. Moreover, folding it and putting it in the trunk of your car is complicated. Indeed, the wheels are bigger and can be a bit awkward.

Verdict

A 3-wheeled stroller offers a high level of maneuverability on all types of ground. However, the compact cane stroller will keep your baby safer and will not restrict your baby's movement.

Why buy a compact stroller?

Easy to maneuver

When you try to maneuver a standard stroller, you may have trouble steering it exactly where you want to go. This is due to the heavy and cumbersome nature of regular strollers. Compact cane strollers, on the other hand, are designed so that you don't have to struggle when moving the cart in a specific direction.

Can be stored easily

Parents who prioritize saving space might consider buying a compact cane stroller over a heavier stroller or double stroller, though these types of strollers are often incredibly easy to fold and store, too. Not only are these strollers easier to move around, but they also take up much less space than standard strollers.

Simple setup process

The simplicity of compact cane strollers even extends to their setup process. When you bring home your own compact stroller, you should have no trouble setting it up properly. Many models can even be assembled in a minute or less. This simple and intuitive process can help you save time and get your baby started as quickly as possible. If you're looking for a stroller that can save you energy and time in every way, a compact cane stroller can meet your needs.

Less expensive

Compact cane strollers are generally less expensive than standard strollers. This is an important factor to keep in mind if you are on a budget or looking to save money while stocking up on supplies for your newborn. Also, buying a compact cane stroller is often the most cost-effective option for new parents. Since you don't need to keep your stroller for long, it's more practical to opt for a less expensive model that's just as effective as more expensive options.

Sun protection included

When looking for the perfect stroller for your child, it's important to consider additional features such as sun protection. Many compact strollers include sunshades that can provide your baby with essential SPF protection. By choosing a trusted compact cane stroller, you can ensure that your baby is properly protected from harmful UV rays and stays cool in hot weather. Not only are compact cane strollers convenient and affordable options for your child, but they are also designed with basic safety in mind.

The best brands of compact cane strollers

In our opinion, the best brands of compact cane strollers in 2022 are :

MacLaren
Bébé Confort
Chicco
Maxi Cosi
Graco

Present in the world of childcare since 1965, MacLaren owes its success to the revolutionary idea of the former test pilot and aeronautical engineer Owen Finlay MacLaren, who gave it its name. It was during his career that the pilot came up with the idea of creating a stroller that could fold, be compact, light and practical for travel. Today, the brand is known for its innovations as well as the authenticity and durability of its products, including the compact cane strollers.

Specialized in the design of childcare products such as strollers, Bébé confort is increasingly close to families thanks to the quality of its products. Its objective? To get under the skin of parents to know what they really need in the new life they are starting with their treasure. By focusing on the practicality, authenticity and excellent robustness of its products, the brand has won over millions of parents around the world.

Renowned for its toys, Chicco is also one of the world's leading brands of childcare equipment. From pushchairs to car seats, cradles and high chairs, the brand does not forget the small accessories that are useful in everyday life (pacifiers, nursing pads, baby monitors, etc.). For millions of parents all over the world, Chicco's advice and top quality products have become a must.

Given its worldwide presence, the success of Maxi Cosi is no longer up for debate. All parents and future parents know the brand for its car seats, but also for its strollers, which are very varied. In addition to its reputation, the brand has more than one trick up its sleeve to accompany parents in their new world: quality, durability and resistance are their watchwords.

For more than 20 years, the Graco brand has earned the trust of parents when it comes to purchasing quality childcare equipment. Demanding and perfectionist, Graco focuses on the health and safety of young children. Moreover, it is especially appreciated for its variety of products that allow to accompany children in their growth and well-being.

What is the price for a compact umbrella stroller

The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).

However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.

We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.

Entry-level
20 £ to 150 £
Mid-range
150 £ to 300 £
High-end
more than 300 £
Price range diagram

Tips

Use the brakes when stopped and the safety harness

For safety reasons, apply the brakes whenever you stop your stroller while baby is in it. Likewise, don't release the safety harness until you're ready to pick him up. Because he tends to turn from side to side at this age, your baby can roll the stroller and fall out.

Choose only reclining models for newborns

Newborns don't yet have the strength in their necks to properly support their heads. The motion of the stroller can cause the head to fall forward and cut off the airway, so a compact cane stroller that offers a reclining position is more appropriate. On the other hand, if your little one is not yet sitting up straight, even after the first 6 months, always keep him or her in a reclining or semi-reclining position.

Always check the weight limit of the stroller

If

your baby's weight exceeds the weight limit of the stroller, the stroller may become unstable. Also, your baby will never feel comfortable in the stroller, since he or she is larger and heavier than the stroller itself. Be sure to choose a compact stroller that is ergonomic and gives baby enough room to sit comfortably.

Never overload the stroller

In

addition to choosing a compact cane stroller that is compatible with your treasure's weight, avoid overloading the equipment with heavier bags. Also, avoid placing two babies in it at once, when the model is designed for one child.

Cover baby properly in winter

Beware of

gale force winds that can lead to the flu or cough! Since baby is extremely exposed on his stroller, we recommend the use of gloves, hat, scarf, down jacket and coveralls, in addition to the footmuff.

FAQ

Which compact stroller to choose?

In our opinion, the compact cane stroller for most people is the MacLaren Globetrotter Cane Stroller. This is a model that makes your life easier in any circumstance, whether it's during your jogging sessions, your walks on paved roads or even for your family walks by the mother. In other words, you'll be perfectly equipped to go anywhere, while staying light and comfortable. Your baby will enjoy a good ride whether he is asleep or awake, as the backrest can be reclined at will.

How to fold a compact stroller?

The folding and unfolding of a stroller depends primarily on the design. For example, some brands offer locking buttons that must be pressed to fold or unfold the equipment. Usually, you just have to pull the handle back to the footrest and fold it again to make it a small, easy-to-carry piece of luggage.

When to put baby in a compact stroller?

You can use a compact buggy at any time and in any circumstance. Particularly popular for outings and trips, this type of stroller can also be used at home. You can put your baby in it during his nap, or after his feeding, if you have other responsibilities to attend to. However, it is essential to keep the stroller close by to avoid accidents.

Compact stroller: for which age?

As many brands now offer compact strollers suitable for infants, you can use them as soon as your little one is born. But usually they are designed for babies from 6 to 36 months (3 years). More sophisticated models are suitable for children aged 4 years.

How to maintain a compact stroller?

In order to ensure its durability and baby's hygiene, it is important to take good care of your compact pushchair. To do this, remember to oil the wheels, the fixing screws on the folding and unfolding system, as well as the brakes. This will prevent friction between the parts and the appearance of rust. In addition, do not hesitate to wash the cover and the seat occasionally with a brush or a damp cloth, without forgetting to remove the dust before each use. After a trip in the rain, take your stroller out into the sun to remove any traces of moisture.

Sources

Note: Below are some of the sources we have consulted in writing this article. Links to other sites are not continuously updated. It is therefore possible that a link may not be found. Please use a search engine to find the desired information.
  1. , quechoisir.org
  2. , mamanglobetrotteuse.com
  3. , journaldesfemmes.fr
  4. , laredoute.fr
  5. , bestreviews.com
  6. , whattoexpect.com
  7. , littleonemag.com
  8. , consumersearch.com
  9. , consumerreports.org
  10. , bebe2luxe.fr
  11. , amazon.co.uk
  12. , autourdebebe.com
  13. , carrefour.fr
  14. , aubert.com
  15. , clubmamans.com
  16. , allobebe.fr
  17. , bfmtv.com
  18. , fr.shop-orchestra.com
  19. , chicco.fr
  20. , cdiscount.com
  21. , comparatif-poussettes.fr
  22. , poussette.info
  23. , monblogdebebe.fr
  24. , amazon.co.uk
  25. , laredoute.fr
  26. , enfant-en-voyage.com
  27. , maisonae.fr
  28. , consobaby.com
  29. , maisonae.fr
  30. , cdiscount.com
  31. , bebe2luxe.fr
See more

Updates

March 2022 : Translation of this buying guide from our partner meilleurtest.fr

See more
Our selection
Nania - Orla city stroller 9
Nania - Orla city stroller
Chicco London Up 10
Chicco London Up
MacLaren Quest Arc 11
MacLaren Quest Arc
Poussette canne compacte Liteway 3 Chicco 12
Poussette canne compacte Liteway 3 Chicco

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