There’s a specific kind of travel anxiety that only parents understand. It’s not about missing a flight or losing luggage; it’s the dread of wrestling a massive, cumbersome stroller through a crowded airport terminal. I remember a trip where our full-sized stroller felt less like a convenience and more like a third piece of checked baggage we had to drag everywhere. It got stuck in security scanners, was a nightmare to fold at the gate, and took up the entire trunk of our rental car. We vowed then and there to find a solution—a stroller that could offer the comfort of a full-sized model but with the portability our mobile lifestyle demanded. This search for the holy grail of parenting gear—a truly compact, lightweight, yet comfortable stroller—is what led us to extensively test the Ergobaby Metro+ Compact Lightweight Stroller.
What to Consider Before Buying a Lightweight Baby Stroller
A Lightweight Baby Stroller is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for on-the-go parents seeking freedom and flexibility. It bridges the gap between bulky, feature-heavy traditional strollers and flimsy, uncomfortable umbrella strollers. The main benefit is liberation—from being weighed down, from struggling with complex folding mechanisms, and from sacrificing precious trunk or storage space. These strollers are designed for navigating tight city streets, bustling airports, and quick errands, making everyday life and adventurous travel significantly less stressful. They allow you to be more spontaneous, turning a potential logistical challenge into a simple grab-and-go experience.
The ideal customer for this type of product is a parent living in an urban environment with limited storage, a frequent traveler who needs an airplane-compliant carry-on, or a family looking for a secondary stroller that lives in the car for quick trips. If you need a stroller that can handle rugged hiking trails, carry multiple children, or has massive, all-terrain wheels, a compact model might not be your primary solution. In those cases, a dedicated jogging stroller or a larger wagon-style carrier might be more suitable. The goal of a compact stroller is to balance portability with essential comfort and features, not to be a master of all terrains.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: Pay close attention to the folded dimensions. The key selling point of a travel stroller is its ability to fit into tight spaces, most notably an airplane’s overhead bin. We measured the Ergobaby Metro+ at a tidy 21 x 17 x 9 inches when folded, confirming its compliance with most airline carry-on regulations. This compactness is equally valuable for small car trunks and apartment closets.
- Capacity/Performance: Look beyond just the weight. A stroller’s capacity should cover both the child’s weight (up to 50 lbs for the Metro+) and the storage basket’s capability. Performance also includes maneuverability. We found that single-handed pushing is a must for multitasking parents, and the suspension system is critical for ensuring a smooth ride over cracked sidewalks and bumpy paths.
- Materials & Durability: The materials dictate both the feel and the lifespan of the stroller. The Ergobaby Metro+ Compact Lightweight Stroller uses high-quality polyester fabrics, a sturdy frame, and never-flat PU rubber tires. We particularly appreciated the adjustable vegan leather handlebar, which adds a touch of premium comfort and durability where you interact with it most.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: How intuitive is the fold? Can you recline the seat with one hand while holding a coffee? These daily interactions matter. While we found the Metro+’s fold to be a two-handed process, its other adjustments, like the recline and leg rest, are incredibly simple. For long-term care, look for fabrics that are easy to spot-clean or are machine washable.
While the Ergobaby Metro+ Compact Lightweight Stroller is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
First Impressions: Unboxing the Ergobaby Metro+
Pulling the Ergobaby Metro+ Compact Lightweight Stroller from its box, the first thing we noticed was its substance. At 17 lbs, it feels solid and well-engineered, not flimsy like some ultra-light competitors. There’s virtually no assembly required; you simply unfold it, click the wheels into place, and you’re ready to roll. The black polyester fabric is sleek and feels durable, and the plush, ergonomic padding in the seat is immediately impressive—far more generous than what we’ve seen on other compact strollers. The vegan leather handlebar is a premium touch that elevates the entire experience, feeling comfortable and secure in our hands. It instantly gave the impression of a high-end product that was thoughtfully designed not just for the baby’s comfort, but for the parent’s as well. The promise of a stroller that could handle life from day one without extra bassinets or attachments was a bold one, and seeing the ‘Newborn Nest’ feature integrated directly into the seat design was our first clue that this stroller might just live up to the hype. You can see its full feature set and user reviews to get a better sense of its premium build.
Key Benefits
- Truly compact fold fits in most airplane overhead bins
- Exceptional, plush padding for superior child comfort
- Full near-flat recline and integrated Newborn Nest for use from birth
- Smooth ride with spring suspension and all-terrain PU rubber tires
- Adjustable handlebar caters to parents of different heights
Potential Drawbacks
- Folding and unfolding mechanism requires two hands and can be clunky
- At 17 lbs, it’s heavier than some other ultra-compact travel strollers
- Some essential accessories, like a bumper bar or parent console, are sold separately
A Deep Dive into the Ergobaby Metro+ Compact Lightweight Stroller’s Performance
A stroller’s true worth is revealed not in a showroom, but on cobbled streets, in crowded cafes, and during the chaotic sprint to an airport gate. Over weeks of rigorous testing, we pushed the Ergobaby Metro+ to its limits. We navigated grocery store aisles, traversed park lawns, and, yes, folded it under the pressure of a boarding queue. This is where it moved from being a promising product on paper to an indispensable tool in our daily lives.
Unmatched Comfort: A First-Class Seat for Your Little One
The single most standout feature of the Ergobaby Metro+ Compact Lightweight Stroller is, without a doubt, the seat. Ergobaby built its brand on ergonomics, and that expertise is on full display here. The padding is plush, substantial, and clearly designed for long-haul comfort. On a long day out, our toddler, who often gets restless, was content and even fell asleep for an extended nap—the ultimate endorsement. This was echoed by numerous users who noted their child was incredibly comfortable, with one parent remarking their “12-month-old is asleep and snoring in it.”
The magic, however, lies in its versatility. The multi-position recline is operated by a simple strap system, allowing for a seamless transition from upright sightseeing to a near-flat sleeping position. This feature proved essential for naps on the go. But the true game-changer is the integrated “Newborn Nest.” By using a series of clever snaps and folding up the adjustable leg rest, the seat transforms into a cozy, enclosed space suitable for a newborn from day one, no expensive bassinet attachment required. We tested this with a friend’s three-month-old, and the feature was brilliant. As one traveling parent confirmed, “The full recline was essential, as he is too young to sit up… I loved the infant nest feature using the side snaps as it kept his feet and toys safely inside.” This single feature extends the stroller’s usable life span significantly and makes it an incredible value proposition for new parents who want a single, compact solution.
The Everyday Push: Maneuverability and Parent-Friendly Design
A stroller can be comfortable for the child, but if it’s a pain to push, it will end up collecting dust. Thankfully, the Metro+ delivers a surprisingly smooth and agile ride. The never-flat PU rubber tires are a significant upgrade over the plastic wheels found on many compacts. Combined with the spring suspension, they absorb the minor bumps of city sidewalks and park paths with ease. We pushed it one-handed while carrying shopping bags and found it tracked straight and turned sharply. As one user aptly compared, its wheels are great for “multiple terrains,” handling gravel and grass far better than competitors whose wheels are “only sturdy enough for indoor and smooth concrete.”
Parent comfort is equally addressed. The adjustable handlebar is a feature often omitted on compact strollers, and its inclusion here is a massive win. With a simple push of two buttons, we could change the height, making it comfortable for both myself (at 5’8″) and my taller partner (at 6’2″). This prevents the dreaded hunching over that plagues parents pushing fixed-handle strollers. The storage basket, while not cavernous, is larger than we expected for a stroller this size. It easily held our diaper bag, a few jackets, and some snacks, keeping our essentials within reach. These thoughtful design elements demonstrate a deep understanding of what parents actually need in a daily driver. The entire package feels so well-thought-out; you can check the latest price and availability online.
The Travel Test: Folding, Flying, and Portability
The primary mission for a stroller like the Metro+ is to make travel easier. Its defining feature is a fold so compact (21 x 17 x 9 inches) that it qualifies as a carry-on for most airlines. We confirmed this on a domestic flight, where it slid easily into the overhead bin with room to spare, completely eliminating the need to gate-check and the risk of damage by baggage handlers. This is a revolutionary convenience for flying families. One parent called it a “lifesaver” that made “airport navigation a breeze.” When not flying, its small footprint meant it barely took up any space in our car trunk, leaving plenty of room for groceries or luggage.
However, this is also where we encountered the stroller’s most cited weakness: the fold/unfold mechanism. It is not a one-handed operation. Folding requires pressing buttons on the handlebar, pushing it forward, and then collapsing the frame. Unfolding is the reverse and, as one user accurately described, “You need your hand and at least your foot to kick this thing open.” While we got the hang of it after a few tries, it’s not as slick or seamless as some competitors. This is the primary trade-off. You get a robust frame and incredible comfort in exchange for a fold that requires a moment of focused effort. For us, the benefits of its comfort and travel-readiness far outweighed the slight inconvenience of the two-handed fold.
What Other Users Are Saying
Across the board, the sentiment for the Ergobaby Metro+ Compact Lightweight Stroller is overwhelmingly positive, with users consistently praising its core strengths. Many, like us, are “amazed at what a smooth ride it is” and love the “plush padding to make it more comfortable.” The travel aspect is a recurring theme of celebration, with one user stating it “has been a game-changer for our travels.” The from-birth functionality is another frequently lauded feature, seen as a huge selling point that adds significant value.
However, no product is perfect, and the user feedback provides a balanced perspective. The most common complaint centers on the folding mechanism. One parent, who otherwise called the stroller “amazing,” subtracted a star for the “less than smooth opening and close.” A few users also reported durability concerns after extended use, with issues like broken plastic on the footrest or malfunctioning buckles after a trip. While our unit has held up perfectly, these reports are worth noting, though they seem to be the exception rather than the rule. A small number of users also found it a “tad heavy for a travel/compact stroller,” a valid point when comparing it to the lightest models on the market, but we felt the weight contributed to its sturdy, high-quality feel.
How Does the Ergobaby Metro+ Compare to the Alternatives?
The lightweight stroller market is competitive, and the Ergobaby Metro+ isn’t the only option. To understand where it fits, we compared it against three distinct alternatives that cater to different family needs.
1. Inglesina Quid 2 Ultra Compact Stroller
The Inglesina Quid 2 is a direct competitor, focusing on the same ultra-compact, travel-friendly niche. It’s often praised for being exceptionally lightweight—even more so than the Metro+—and featuring a true one-handed fold, which is a significant advantage for parents juggling a baby and bags. However, where the Metro+ excels in plushness, the Quid 2 has slightly less padding and a less robust feel. A parent who prioritizes the absolute lightest weight and the easiest possible fold above all else might prefer the Inglesina Quid 2. The Ergobaby, in contrast, is for the parent who accepts a bit more weight and a two-handed fold in exchange for superior ergonomic comfort and a more substantial, all-terrain-capable ride.
2. Veer Cruiser XL 4-Seat All-Terrain Wagon Stroller
The Veer Cruiser XL represents a completely different approach to child transport. This is not a compact stroller; it’s a rugged, all-terrain wagon designed for adventure and multiple children. With seating for up to four kids, it’s the ultimate solution for large families, beach days, or navigating rough outdoor environments. It’s built like a tank and offers unparalleled space and utility. The Veer is the ideal choice for parents who need capacity and off-road performance far more than they need something that fits in an overhead bin. It serves a purpose the Ergobaby Metro+ simply isn’t designed for, making the choice between them dependent entirely on family size and lifestyle.
3. BABY JOY Double Umbrella Stroller Compact Fold
For parents with two young children, the BABY JOY Double Umbrella Stroller offers a practical, side-by-side solution. Its primary advantage is its ability to transport two toddlers while maintaining a relatively lightweight and compact umbrella fold. It’s a budget-friendly and functional choice for managing twins or siblings close in age. However, it compromises on the premium features found in the Ergobaby Metro+. You won’t get the plush padding, the near-flat recline suitable for newborns, the spring suspension, or the adjustable handlebar. This stroller is for the family of four that needs a simple, efficient, and affordable way to get around, whereas the Metro+ is a premium, single-child solution focused on individual comfort and travel convenience.
The Final Verdict: Is the Ergobaby Metro+ Worth It?
After extensive testing, our conclusion is clear: the Ergobaby Metro+ Compact Lightweight Stroller is a phenomenal piece of parenting gear that brilliantly balances the demands of travel with the need for uncompromising child comfort. Its standout features—the from-birth Newborn Nest, the incredibly plush and ergonomic seat, and its smooth, sturdy ride—set it apart in a crowded market. It proves that you don’t have to sacrifice your child’s comfort for the convenience of a compact fold.
Yes, the folding mechanism requires two hands, and it carries a bit more weight than some of its featherlight rivals. But these are minor trade-offs for a stroller that feels so solid, versatile, and luxurious to use for both parent and child. If you are a frequent traveler, a city dweller, or any parent looking for a high-quality, long-lasting compact stroller that can serve as your primary ride from the hospital to preschool, the Ergobaby Metro+ is an outstanding investment. It’s a product that doesn’t just solve a problem; it enhances your ability to explore the world with your little one in tow. For a stroller that delivers on nearly every promise, you should definitely explore the Ergobaby Metro+ and see if it’s the right fit for your family.
