Strollers, Travel and Stairs
How to Navigate Your Vacation with Stroller Obstacles
Many destinations aren't stroller-friendly, often times making it so stairs are the only way to get somewhere. Overcome the stroller travel vs. stairs war.
Yes, you can win the battle, believe it or not. Just because you encounter stairs or other stroller obstacles, such as hiking or the beach, don't worry. You can get your baby to the other side.
- Carry the stroller - You might see a flight of stairs, either leading to a boutique or to a rail platform, and think that means you can't go up. Just carry the entire stroller. This is much easier if there are two of you. One should firmly grasp the top and bottom (not removable trays!) on one side, and the other do the same for the other side. Lift and go. If you are alone, this is nearly as easy.
- Get a lightweight umbrella stroller - This will make it easier to carry, or you can quickly fold it up and carry baby and stroller. I clipped a suitcase strap onto my umbrella stroller to make it easy to throw over my shoulder.
- Get a backpack - In some instances, a stroller is just more trouble than it's worth. Hiking and the beach or two great examples of this, or even a heavy day scaling up and down subway system stairs. In that case, a good baby or toddler carrier or backback might be best. Just be sure to check the weight limits. Many carriers are only good up to 20 to 30 pounds.
- Have hands-free baggage - I've always been a fan of the rolling backpack for its versatility, and this is a good example. If you have your hands free of baggage, it is much simpler to pick up a stroller or baby. If this isn't an option, and two of you are traveling, have on carry your suitcases to the next landing (within eyesight), then come back to help you carry the stroller down the stairs. This isn't ideal, but sometimes you've got to do what you can.
- Get a combination stroller - If you really think you will have equal need for both a stroller and carrier, consider getting one that does double-duty. The Kelty Convertible is a stroller and backpack combo.
- Follow handicapped signs - These are frequently a universal blue symbol of a person in a wheelchair. Follow this sign, and you're sure to find an elevator, sometimes in an unexpected place.
- Ask someone where to go - I was surprised how many places had wacky lifts or elevators hidden away. Even if you don't speak the local language well, simply pointing to the stroller will usually get you general directions to a stroller-friendly route.
Related articles:
- Avoid Jet Lag in Children
- Child Sleep Travel Tips
- Travel with Twins
- Flying with Baby
- Family Road Trip Packing
The copyright of the article Strollers, Travel and Stairs in Family Adventures is owned by Kelby Carr. Permission to republish Strollers, Travel and Stairs must be granted by the author in writing.
