Traveling to Hawaii with a baby or toddler? Chances are, you’re wondering what all you need to pack to save you time and energy on vacation. Scroll to find out the best travel stroller for Hawaii.
This best travel stroller for Hawaii post was written by Hawaii travel expert Marcie Cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, I may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog.
If you’re heading to Hawaii with a baby, you may be wondering how best to handle all of the baby ‘things’ we generally rely on from day-to-day.
Whether you’re wondering if you can rent baby items in Kauai, if you should bring your own lightweight umbrella stroller, or even which option is the best travel stroller for a trip to Hawaii, the following resources should be a great starting point for your family vacation to Hawaii.
See the top rated travel stroller here
Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Hawaii Itineraries complete with daily schedules, kid-friendly activities, and travel hacks? Click the button below.
Flying to the Hawaiian Islands with a Baby or Toddler
For families headed to Hawaii to visit the island of Maui, flying into Kahului (OGG) is your best bet since many flights from the Mainland fly directly to OGG.
Convenience is key when traveling to Hawaii with a baby or toddler and this is the most direct way. Otherwise, you’ll have to get a connecting flight from Honolulu Airport (HNL) in Oahu.
If you’re headed to Kauai, you’ll likely get a connecting flight from HNL (unless you are flying from the West Coast and pick a direct flight.)
Similarly, if your final destination is Big Island on the Kailua-Kona side, most flights will arrive at HNL, from which you’ll have to connect to Keahole (KOA) near Kona.
Big Island (East Side), Lanai, and Molokai also have connecting flights to their respective airports from HNL, but depending on where you’re going on each island, it may make more sense to fly direct.
Read my full post on Hawaii inter-island flights
Tips for Flying to Hawaii With a Baby or Toddler
If you’re heading to Hawaii with a baby under the age of 2, you will be able to have them seated on your lap during the duration of the flight.
Be sure to bring a copy of your child’s birth certificate, though, just to be on the safe side.
If you are flying with a baby or toddler, you’ll likely want to bring a stroller.
The following tips should help determine which type to bring and offer suggestions on which type of stroller you may need to check and which strollers can go on the plane with you.
If you bring a stroller with you to Hawaii, there are a few key things you’ll want to bear in mind.
You will need to have the stroller screened at the TSA security checkpoint. Ideally, you’ll want a lightweight travel stroller that folds up enough to go through the X-ray machine.
If you’re bringing a bulkier stroller that doesn’t fold up, it will need to be inspected individually, which may lengthen the time it takes you to get through security.
Know The Airlines Policies For Traveling With Kids
Strollers and car seats are not included in the standard baggage limits. They can be checked for free, often at the curb or ticket counter.
This makes things a lot easier when you’re flying with a baby and trying to navigate through an unfamiliar airport with other carry-on items.
If you do want your stroller in the airport, you can always plan on gate-checking it or taking it on the plane.
Small, lightweight umbrella strollers can be brought with you on the plane and kept in the overhead bin with your carry-on luggage.
Learn more about traveling Hawaiian Airlines with a child under the age of 2.
Tips for Gate-Checking Your Stroller
If you do gate-check your stroller, be sure to find out where the stroller will end up once you deplane.
Usually, you will take your stroller to the plane, fold it, and leave it. Then, workers will deliver your stroller to the same spot at your destination.
Sometimes it will be at baggage claim, so it’s important to know where to look for it.
Remember to remove any attachments from your stroller, like toys or drink carriers, like an added cup holder. Make sure that everything is strapped down securely.
Learn about the Hawaiian Airlines stroller and child restraint policy here.
Best Stroller Bags for Air Travel
There are several options in terms of the best stroller travel bag. Stroller bags ensure the stroller stays clean, organized, and in one piece during the journey.
Ideally, the stroller bag material should be waterproof and durable. Handles or a carrying strap that make it easy to carry with a large enough opening is important too.
This ensures you’re not fumbling around trying to get organized in the middle of a busy airport.
The OnGuard Stroller Travel Bag is waterproof, rip-resistant, and works well for single or lightweight umbrella strollers. The shoulder strap is amazing! Check out the latest prices and more details.
If you need to check a jogging stroller or double stroller, the Zohzo Stroller Travel bag is adjustable and easy to carry. Find the best prices here.
Best Travel Strollers for a Hawaii Vacation
Lightweight & Compact Best Travel Strollers
Here are some of the best lightweight travel strollers perfect for your Hawaii vacation!
gb Pockit
The gb Pockit+ travel stroller is one of the most compact, foldable lightweight strollers and the best bet for flying to Hawaii with a baby or toddler. Check out the latest prices and more details.
The Pockit+ weighs 9.5 lbs total and can carry a maximum weight of 55 lbs. It is the world’s smallest stroller and is self-standing when folded.
This feature is great when you’re hanging around the airport waiting in line; you won’t have to lay it down on the dusty floor.
It’s my pick for the best lightweight stroller for travel.
Check Amazon for current pricing.
YoYo² Bundle
The YoYo² Bundle is the best compact stroller for travel. It comes with a shoulder strap to easily carry it with you throughout the airport and your entire vacation! Check out the latest prices and more details.
This everyday stroller has waterproof resistant material, a zipped back pocket, and a one-handed fold feature. You can even keep it in the overhead compartment on the airplane, too, making it one of the most compact travel strollers there is. It literally has all the features you could ever hope for and is the best foldable stroller!
The YoYo² Bundle Travel Strollers weigh 13.67 lbs and can carry a maximum weight of 48.5 lbs. It is considered the best lightweight travel stroller and deserves a spot on my list!
Check Amazon for current pricing.
Munchkin® Sparrow™ Travel Stroller
This is another one of the best travel system strollers you’ll find perfect for everyday use and for your trip to Hawaii. Check out the latest prices and more details.
The Munchkin® Sparrow™ Travel Strollers fold so easily and look tiny when all folded up! The folded stroller weighs under 13 lbs and folds up to be about 15″ x 14″ x 6.25″, so it can easily be your carry-on item or fit in the overhead storage bin.
It is safe for young ones 55 lbs and lighter and those who can sit without assistance. This easy-fold stroller even comes with a carrying case too!
Whether you are doing a city tour or just want a compact travel stroller for the airport, this Munchkin Travel Stroller has got you covered.
Check Amazon for current pricing.
Joolz AER
At only 13.4 lbs, the Joolz AER is another one of the best stroller for airplane travel. It uses a one-handed fold and will fit in the overhead bin on the airplane. Check out the latest prices and more details.
What I love about this small folding stroller is that it has an XXL sun canopy, a padded seat, a carrying strap, and it is made out of 100% recycled fabrics. You will also receive a rain cover and a travel bag included with this compact stroller.
Not only does it offer a smooth ride, but it also has a storage basket with plenty of storage space compared to other strollers.
Check Amazon for current pricing.
Besrey Travel Stroller
The Besrey Travel Stroller is another lightweight travel system you will love taking with you to Hawaii. It has a waterproof canopy, cup holder, shock-absorbing wheels, and much more. Check out the latest prices and more details.
This small stroller for travel weighs 14.4 lbs and can hold up to 50 lbs. It is one of the only travel strollers with cup holders, which is very nice to have on the islands.
It is another one of the light strollers for travel I’ve seen and the most tested travel strollers of 2023.
Check Amazon for current pricing.
G-LUXE Stroller
The G Luxe Stroller is the best car seat travel system for ages 3 months to 55 lbs. It features a nice calf rest, machine-washable fabric, a cup holder, and multi-position recline options. Check out the latest prices and more details.
These lightweight travel strollers have a big storage basket underneath that allows you to store all your baby gear. It is super easy to fold and will stand on its own when folded. The G Luxe Stroller also has a carrying strap to help you as well while you travel.
This stroller weighs 20 lbs, so a bit heavier than the other strollers, but still a pretty lightweight stroller.
Check Amazon for current pricing.
CYBEX Libelle Stroller
For the best foldable stroller, try out the CYBEX Libelle Stroller. It is also one of the best infant travel systems because it is compatible with car seats too! Check out the latest prices and more details.
It is extremely lightweight, at only 13.4 lbs, and will hold up to 55 lbs! This compact travel stroller has any CYBEX infant car seat compatibility, making it great for those who are traveling to Hawaii with their infants.
The wheels provide a very smooth ride, and the sun canopy offers UPF 50+ protection. It also has a decent storage basket underneath and can recline completely flat almost too!
Check Amazon for current pricing.
Silver Cross Jet 3 Stroller
The Silver Cross Jet 3 Stroller folds up very nicely and is another one of the top lightweight strollers offering a smooth ride and plenty of storage space for all your baby items. Check out the latest prices and more details.
These travel strollers weigh just 13.6 lbs and hold up to 55 lbs, perfect for everyday use and for your travel needs. It offers a one-handed fold and will stand up on its own when folded. This umbrella stroller has a bumper bar, a huge storage basket, and a sun canopy with UPF protection.
It even fits in the overhead bin on most airplanes too! Other features include an adjustable calf rest and spring suspension for a comfortable ride no matter where you go.
Check Amazon for current pricing.
Nuna TRVL Stroller
The Nuna TRVL Stroller is another one of the best travel strollers you will find. It weighs 13.6 lbs and can hold up to 50 lbs. Check out the latest prices and more details.
It comes with a carry bag to help you easily carry it while you are traveling, or you can use the bumper bar as well. The Nuna TRVL Stroller is compatible with PIPA™ series car seats, no car seat attachment or adapter is needed.
This travel stroller is free-standing and uses a one-handed fold system as well. If you need a travel stroller that works with an infant car seat, this is the one for you!
Check Nuna Baby for current pricing.
Best Double Stroller for Travel
If you have twins or multiple kids, you will need a double stroller while you travel. Most double umbrella strollers are not very travel efficient. However, here are some of the best double umbrella strollers I found great for traveling.
G-Link 2 Stroller
The G-Link 2 Stroller is a double travel stroller that features independent multi-position reclining seats, UPF 50+ sunshades, a carry strap, and so much more. Check out the latest prices and more details.
These Uppababy G Link 2 travel strollers fold up nicely with little to no effort. Most double travel strollers are not lightweight, but this one is only 22.3 lbs.
There is a storage bag on both sides of the stroller, where you can hold your phones, while the storage basket underneath can hold your diaper bag.
I love the one-handed fold, sun canopy extenders, and all the added storage space to this double travel stroller. The Uppababy G Link 2 is a great travel stroller!
Check Amazon for current pricing.
Zoe Travel Stroller
Zoe Travel Strollers come in a wide variety, but they have a lot of double strollers to choose from. The Zoe Twin+ is only 19 lbs and is a fantastic double stroller for traveling. Check out the latest prices and more details.
The nice thing about Zoe Strollers is that you can always add on and create another seat if needed!
It folds easily, is lightweight, and very durable. While their double stroller might not fit in the overhead bin, their Traveler Stroller folds up and will fit!
Check Zoe Baby for current pricing.
Best Jogging Stroller Travel System
If you want a baby jogger, here is one of the best jogging strollers for your trip to Hawaii!
Baby Jogger® City Tour™ 2 Ultra-Compact Travel Stroller
The Baby Jogger® City Tour™ 2 Ultra-Compact Travel Stroller is quite incredible and is only 14 lbs! It is made from 60% recycled fabric and has an ocean theme too! Check out the latest prices and more details.
Also included with this Baby Jogger City Stroller are a bumper bar, carry bag, and weather shield. If you have the car seat adapter, you can also bring along your car seats to use with this travel stroller!
The Baby Jogger City Stroller is a great everyday stroller that you can easily use for your travel stroller as well. The storage pockets down below are super big and can hold your diaper bag along with up to 15 lbs!
It truly is another great light stroller for travel.
Check Amazon for current pricing.
Cheap Travel Systems
If you need a more affordable umbrella stroller while you travel, check out these travel strollers. They are lightweight and great for both travel and everyday use!
Kolcraft Cloud PLUS
The Kolcraft Cloud is the best compact travel stroller under $100. It is only 11.8 lbs and offers an easy one-handed fold. Check out the latest prices and more details.
The Kolcraft Cloud Plus also features cup holders for both the parents and child, which are also both detachable. The stroller folds easily and has multiple reclining positions so your child is always comfortable.
There is a large storage basket underneath, as well as a large canopy to protect your children from the sun. It holds children up to 50 lbs.
This is a very lightweight stroller, is very affordable, and is perfect for your trip to Hawaii!
Check Amazon for current pricing.
Safety 1st Teeny Ultra Compact Stroller
With the Safety 1st Teeny Ultra Compact Stroller, you will find a one-handed fold travel stroller with a cup holder and padded shoulder strap for easy carrying. Check out the latest prices and more details.
This umbrella stroller weighs 15 lbs and can hold up to 5o lbs. There is a large storage basket to hold your diaper bag and other baby gear.
Check Amazon for current pricing.
Contours Itsy Travel Toddler Stroller
The Contours Itsy Travel Toddler Stroller is the best umbrella stroller for travel under $150. It has a bumper bar, UPF 50+ sun protection, a padded seat, and so much more. Check out the latest prices and more details.
It has an all-wheel suspension and allows you to go on different terrain with ease. This travel stroller only weighs 12.3 lbs and can hold up to 40 lbs.
This Contour Itsy Travel Stroller folds up so nicely and is quite compact, perfect for traveling on an airplane.
Check Amazon for current pricing.
Travel Stroller FAQs
Yes, and it doesn’t even count as a paid checked bag! You can gate-check it, or you can take it on the plane yourself if it’s one that folds up super compactly, like the GB Pockit.
It’s a personal preference, but I think it’s incredibly helpful to have a travel stroller. When traveling, you’ll want a stroller that is lightweight and easy to take on planes, in rental cars, and can handle a bit of roughness.
It’s not vital, but it can be really helpful if you plan on checking your stroller with the rest of your checked luggage. It will help protect it from getting damaged, plus you can usually shove a few more things in the stroller bag!
There are a few great strollers to use for your flight. I think the best travel stroller for flying is either this super small compact stroller gb Pockit, or the YoYo² Bundle Stroller that fits in the airplane overhead compartment!
The gb Pockit Travel Strollers fold up super small and are the best lightweight, compact strollers when you travel to Hawaii. They also fit in the overhead compartment on the plane too!
Choose the Best Travel Stroller For Your Needs
When choosing the best travel stroller for a Hawaii vacation with kids there are a few things to remember. Consider your budget, your child’s needs, and your personal preferences to make the best decision.
If you decide to bring a stroller on the plane, choose a lightweight option
that maneuvers easily; otherwise, you do have the option of gate-checking your favorite larger stroller.
Whichever stroller you choose, a family getaway to Hawaii awaits, and that in and of itself is a cause to celebrate.