Best strollers and stroller accessories for new parents in 2026

It's soft and luxurious feeling, and good from six months to 48 pounds. There's also plenty of cargo space given the fact that this folds up to the size of the average backpack, and fits in overhead bins. Depending on how frequently you plan on using a stroller, accessories can make the experience much more enjoyable.
We got our hands on the Thule Shine for testing early this year (thanks, Thule!) and were extremely impressed with its quality and versatility. Thule has produced a formidable opponent to the UppaBaby Cruz for reversible seat stroller a slightly lower price while maintaining Thule's reputation for Swedish style and sophistication. Whether cruising the 'hood or hitting the trails, these are the best strollers to roll with. When looking at the best strollers, we considered several things. These are the questions parents most frequently ask when making this purchase decision. Here's how our top picks compare across the factors that matter most to parents making this decision.

Its standout strength is its reversible seat combined with a lightweight, easy-to-use design. The one-hand fold is particularly useful for parents on the go, allowing for quick pack-down when getting in and out of the car or public transport. It’s well-suited to urban environments, where ease of use and portability are key. In everyday use, the one-hand fold is a major advantage, allowing you to quickly collapse the pram while holding your child or managing other tasks. The seat is designed to be upright and supportive, with an adjustable recline to suit different stages and needs. Its standout strength is its ability to offer full-size comfort and features in a more streamlined, easy-to-handle design.
The Nuna MIXX Next is a premium everyday stroller that combines smooth maneuverability, comfort and a sleek design. Known for its one-handed fold and compact storage, this stroller is perfect for parents who want  high-end functionality without the bulk. It features a fully reclining seat, making it suitable for newborns without the need for an extra bassinet.
But it's still an excellent choice as either a secondary stroller or a travel stroller, or for parents with  kids who only sometimes want to actually be in the stroller. The best baby pram in Australia for 2026 depends on your family’s lifestyle, budget and daily needs. Parents often look for prams with smooth manoeuvrability, compact folding systems and comfortable seating for newborns and toddlers. Features such as all-terrain wheels, reversible seats and generous storage are also popular. Testing prams in person at baby expos can help parents compare different models before making a purchase. When it comes to value, few travel systems deliver quite like the Graco Modes line.

Travel systems can be worth every penny for newborns and their parents. The convenience of moving  a sleeping baby from car to stroller without disturbing them is invaluable. These systems also ensure compatibility between your car seat and stroller, eliminating the guesswork about whether components work together safely.
It's also one of the top baby registry must-haves, with gifters often going in together to buy one for the lucky expectant parents, which makes pinning down your favorite critical. Fortunately, there are a ton of great choices on the market right now, and we're confident you can find the best stroller for your family on this list. Alternatively, many parents prefer a bigger stroller or a travel system for going on all-day outings or visiting amusement parks, but they want a more compact stroller when heading out for a quick jaunt. There’s no official recommendation for which way direction your baby should face in a stroller. But you’ll find that most strollers are designed so that if they’re newborn-compatible, they are facing you directly in the stroller. Not only does this boost baby development, but it allows you to keep a watchful eye on your little one.
While you will need to use two different adapters to fit two infant car seats side by side, you can still pair matching car seats. What we loveOur parent tester, Hatty, loved its standout auto-fold feature. This stroller folds down effortlessly at the push of a button, making it ideal for city living and travel. It also boasts a sleek, modern design and offers convenience with a roomy shopping basket, extendable UPF 50+ canopy, and adjustable footrest for added comfort. For city dwellers, it's a great investment as it's affordable, lightweight and grows with your child.

Lightweight, cabin-friendly and easy to fold one-handed, it’s designed for busy parents who want flexibility without compromising on comfort. The Redsbaby SKIP³ is an ultra-compact travel stroller designed for portability, convenience, and everyday use. It’s suitable from newborn with a compatible bassinet or from 6 months with the main seat, and supports children up to 22kg. What makes this system stand out is the incredible versatility—you get multiple stroller modes plus a car seat all in one package. The pramette mode is perfect for newborns who need to lie flat, and the transition between modes is intuitive enough that you can do it sleep-deprived. The storage basket is generously sized, and the smooth glide of the wheels makes pushing feel effortless even with a full load.
After testing dozens of models over the years, I’ve learned that the perfect newborn stroller isn’t about finding the most expensive one, but the one that actually works for your lifestyle. Baby Jogger has a great line-up of premium quality strollers, and the City Mini GT2 makes our list for its compact size. The one-handed fold makes it easy to collapse, especially when your other arm is busy carrying a child or groceries.

"This fits in my trunk and still leaves me plenty of space for other items." The Maxi-Cosi Lara 2 is a compact, lightweight stroller designed for modern parents on the move. Weighing just 6.4kg, it's easy to carry and navigate through busy streets or public transport.
These are the compact buggies that made travelling with a little one noticeably easier. Investing in a stroller is a significant decision that impacts daily life for parents and their children. The 2026 Consumer Reports evaluation offers valuable insights into the best options available. By understanding the critical features and learning from expert recommendations, parents can make informed purchasing decisions that prioritize safety, comfort, and convenience. What we don't loveWhile it's great for urban adventures, it's not designed for rough terrain, so it's best suited for smooth roads and shopping trips.
What struck me about the Doona is how effortlessly it transforms from car seat to stroller—perfect for busy parents. Its ergonomic support and safety features like side impact protection make it a top choice for newborns and travel. The Cybex eGazelle S takes family strolling to the next level with intelligent e-powered support designed to make hills, uneven terrain and everyday outings feel effortless.