The 5 Best Strollers for Big Kids of 2023

Written by Fiona Peacock

Updated on April 16, 2023

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• Once your child can walk, your stroller will get less frequent use.
• Many parents switch their travel system for a lightweight stroller for big kids at this time. 
• There are many different strollers on the market, from lightweight travel strollers to all-terrain joggers. 

As your child grows, you will use your stroller less frequently. Once your child is walking, they may be keen to make shorter journeys on foot (very slowly). Over time, they will spend less and less time in the stroller, though you will likely still use it for longer journeys. 

With less time spent in the stroller and potentially more time spent pushing an empty one, you may want a new stroller for big kids to meet your new requirements. During this phase, you will care less about cup holder accessories and lust after lightweight strollers.  

There are lots of strollers for big kids on the market, so you’ll be able to find one to suit your needs. So whether you need a zippy buggy for city living or an off-roading stroller for muddy country walks, there will be something to suit your budget. 

Our Choice: Pockit+ All Terrain

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The Pockit+ All Terrain is the best stroller for big kids. It is ultra-lightweight, making it ideal for big kids. In addition, the lightweight big kid stroller is streamlined and easy to maneuver, so it’s perfect for day trips with preschoolers or toddlers who like to walk sometimes.

The stroller has a collapsible and compact design, making it easy to transport when not in use. The stroller folds down in two simple steps and features a convenient carry handle. As a bonus, the Pockit+ All Terrain has a compact fold and can fit in most overhead compartments on planes and trains, so you won’t need to check your big kid stroller in when you fly. 

Unlike other lightweight strollers, the Pockit+ All Terrain is easy to push with one hand. As the name suggests, the stroller steers well and is suitable on all terrains. In addition, the durable design means this stroller can withstand the bumps of everyday life, guaranteeing your child a smooth ride. 

This stroller supports babies from six months old up to 55 pounds. In addition, the Pockit+ All Terrain stroller features a handy storage tray underneath, so you can carry enough snacks to keep your little one happy. 

Material: Aluminum/Polyester/Plastic/Rubber | Maximum Weight Recommendation: 55 pounds | Dimensions: ‎28 x 19 x 39.8 inches
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Best Value: Summer Infant 3Dlite

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If you’re looking for a stroller to bridge the gap from part-time toddling to full-time walking, you probably don’t want to spend a fortune. The Summer Infant 3Dlite is an affordable stroller that doesn’t compromise style or practicality. 

This lightweight stroller weighs just 13 pounds, making it ideal for days out with a toddler. The large seat area provides plenty of space for your toddler to relax, get comfy, and nap. In addition, the four-position recline means you can help your toddler find a comfortable position. 

The storage pocket under the stroller is big enough to fit a nappy bag, and there’s a rear storage pocket for extra storage.

The main complaint about the Summer Infant 3Dlite is the inadequate sunshade. You can compensate for this by buying the additional sunshade, but you’ll need to budget for this. 

The maximum height for this stroller is 43 inches, and the maximum weight is 50 pounds. This is lower than some other strollers, so you should consider this when buying for a bigger child. 

Material: Aluminum | Maximum Weight Recommendation: 50 pounds | Dimensions: 18 x 17 x 43 inches
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Best Jogger: Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 All-Terrain Stroller

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If you’re looking for a jogging stroller you can exercise with, the Baby Jogger City Mini is one of the best on the market. The adjustable handlebar and hand-operated parking brake provide comfortable steering and control so that you can focus on your pace.

The forever air rubber tires with all-wheel suspension are well-suited to all terrains. Unlike strollers with traditional bicycle tires, you won’t have to worry about getting a flat tire. 

The Baby Jogger City Mini is as stylish as it is practical, with a streamlined design that parents love. In addition, the seat provides plenty of space and padding to ensure your child enjoys a comfortable ride. 

Customize your City Mini with a selection of accessories sold separately, including a glider board, child tray, and infant car seat. The City Mini is also available as a double stroller. 

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Material: Rubber | Maximum Weight Recommendation: 65 pounds | Dimensions: ‎44.88 x 21.21 x 43.5 inches
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Best Space: Joovy Zoom360

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The Joovy Zoom360 has plenty of stroller seat space, making it ideal for tall toddlers and preschoolers.  

The high-riding seat allows your child to take in the world around them. Unlike other strollers that position your child close to the ground, the Joovy Zoom360 seats your child higher so they can chat with you and interact with the world more easily. 

The Zoom360 is a jogging stroller and handles all terrains like a pro; from rickety old paths to bumpy beaches, you’ll be able to navigate the world with the Zoom360. In addition, the Joovy Zoom360 boasts excellent stability and maneuverability, so you won’t have to worry when you’re out and about. 

The Joovy Zoom360 weighs just over 26 pounds, so it’s heavier than some of the other lightweight strollers on the market. If you’re looking for a jogging stroller, however, this is a great option. It offers everything you need in terms of maneuverability, comfort, and style. 

Check out the Joovy Zoom X2 Double Stroller if you need a double stroller.

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Material: Polyester, Aluminum | Maximum Weight Recommendation: 75 pounds | Dimensions: 54 x 25 x 46 inches
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Best Features: Uppababy G-LUXE

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If you love the features and add-ons of your travel system and don’t want to give up those creature comforts, the Uppababy G-LUXE is for you. This lightweight umbrella stroller boasts features you would expect from a full travel system. 

The one-handed actuated recline feature is ideal for impromptu naps. And the adjustable footrest allows the stroller to grow with your child. 

The Uppababy G-LUXE stands when folded so you can store it neatly in your home. The stroller features a convenient carry strap, so you can transport it easily even when it’s folded down. 

The removable cup holder helps you stay hydrated, and the spacious storage basket provides plenty of space for your nappy bag. The washable fabrics are easy to remove, making this stroller ideal for even the messiest toddler. 

The large stretch knit canopy with an extendable UPF 50+ sunshade offers fantastic sun and wind protection, so your baby has somewhere safe to nap without you worrying about the weather. 

Material: Denim | Maximum Weight Recommendation: 55 pounds | Dimensions: 28.8 x 18.8 x 43 inches
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Recommended Accessories 

The accessories available for each stroller for big kids vary between manufacturers. Potential stroller accessories include: 

Sun Shades

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Your toddler will need sun protection when out and about on sunny days. A shade can help to protect your child from the sun’s harmful rays. If a sunshade is included, it’s worth checking whether it offers enough protection. It is sometimes worth paying extra for an additional sun shade to provide full coverage for your toddler. 

Use code WONDER10 at SnoozeShade for an extra 10% off!

Rain Cover

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A rain cover is a must, especially if you live somewhere with frequent rain. It’s worth discovering whether you can buy one separately to fit your stroller. 

Cup Holders

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If you like to carry a bottle of water, a cup holder might be a necessity rather than a luxury. Though not all strollers come with built-in cup holders, you will usually be able to find a universal cup holder that will fit your stroller. 

Glider Boards

Glider boards are not available for all strollers. The Baby Jogger City Mini mentioned above is compatible with a glider board for older children, but lightweight umbrella strollers are unlikely to be safe with such an add-on. 

What Are the Different Types of Strollers for Big Kids?

As with all baby and toddler products, it’s essential to do your research before you buy. This is because many different products are available, and you’ll want to ensure you get the right one for your needs. 

The three major types of strollers for big kids are:

• Umbrella. These strollers fold down quickly and easily like an umbrella. They are basic and are best suited to irregular use. They don’t have much (if any) storage space or other extras. 
• Jogging. A jogging stroller is perfect for families on the go. The oversized front wheel means they are easy to push when running. They tend to be durable but can be bulky compared to other strollers. On the other hand, jogging strollers provide a smooth ride, so they’re ideal for longer journeys. 
• Full stroller. If you’re looking for a toddler stroller with all the mod cons, storage, and comfort of a traditional stroller, you might want a full stroller. Unlike the umbrella stroller, which focuses on being lightweight and compactable, a full stroller includes things you would expect from a travel system, such as storage, sun shades, and cup holders.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Stroller for a Big Kid

It’s essential to draw up a list of your must-haves when choosing a stroller for a big kid. You may have a completely different set of must-haves than somebody else, and there will be a stroller best suited for your situation. 

When buying a stroller for a bigger kid, you’ll need to consider the following things:

Weight & Height 

Different strollers have different weight capacities. It’s important to go for a stroller with a bigger weight capacity if you know your toddler is big for their age. The bigger the maximum weight capacity, the longer the stroller will fit your toddler. 

If your toddler is tall, consider the available leg space, too. Will your toddler have room to stretch out on longer journeys? 

Comfort 

If the stroller is for infrequent use and short journeys, you may not be overly concerned about comfort. If you use the stroller for long journeys, however, you’ll likely pay more attention to the seat. Consider how much space your child will have and how padded the seat is. If your toddler still naps, you’ll want a stroller that reclines for a comfortable sleeping position.

If you are taking the stroller on long walks in the countryside, consider the suspension and how comfortable these journeys will be for your toddler. 

Functionality 

It’s essential to consider how easy the stroller is to use. For example, how easy is it to fold up when not in use? Is the folding mechanism easy to use? Consider how easy the stroller is to steer and how well the wheels will cope with different terrains. Finally, pay attention to how much storage each stroller provides; some lightweight strollers don’t offer storage.

Size 

There are various points to consider when it comes to size. For example, does the stroller fold up small enough to fit easily in the trunk of your car? Will it be easy to store in your home when not in use? 

Is the stroller small enough to fit in stores while also being big enough to provide a comfortable place for your child to relax? 

Consider who will be pushing the stroller—are the handlebars adjustable? Some strollers may be unsuitable for taller adults. It’s worth visiting a store with your partner to try out different strollers before making a purchase. 

Budget

Strollers come in all price ranges, so it’s crucial to have a realistic budget before you start shopping. There’s no point in overspending on a stroller that you’ll only use for a short time. Remember, you might be able to find a bargain if you look at second hand strollers. 

FAQs

What is the weight limit of strollers for big kids?

The weight limit varies between strollers, so you’ll need to check the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure it’s suitable for your child. Most strollers have a maximum weight capacity of around 50 to 55 pounds, though some may vary. 

At what age are kids too old to use strollers?

There are no hard and fast rules about what age kids are too old to use strollers. This may depend upon where you live and how much walking you do. For example, a child who makes most journeys by car is likely to be out of a stroller sooner than one whose family frequently makes journeys on foot.

There will be a period of adjustment where your child wants to walk but may not yet be ready to walk the whole journey. A lightweight stroller is ideal for this phase because it will save your back and allow your child to flit between independently walking and resting their legs. 

You may find you dig the stroller out for certain occasions long after you thought your child had grown out of it. For example, a stroller for big kids is a must for a trip to Disney World, where you’ll be doing plenty of walking each day.