Traveling with a toddler can be challenging, but the right stroller can make all the difference. On my recent trip with my 3-year-old, Nat, I brought along the GB Pockit stroller. Overall, it was a solid choice, but there were definitely some trade-offs. Here’s my review, covering the highs, the lows, and why I might switch things up next time.
Pros: Travel-Friendly Features
- Airport Hero: One of the biggest wins of the GB Pockit stroller is its ultra-compact fold. I felt incredibly superior when I quickly folded it down and popped it onto the x-ray belt at airport security. No waiting for a patdown, no hassle—just zip through and go! And let me tell you, it was a power move breezing past everyone waiting for their gate-checked strollers to come up at the end of the flight. The GB Pockit fits right in the overhead bin, and not having to wait with kids is always a perk with mentioning!
- Cruise Cabin Friendly: If you’ve ever cruised, you know those cabins are tiny. The GB Pockit was a clear winner in this department because it took up almost no space. I could easily fold it up and tuck it away without feeling like we were sacrificing precious space.
- Toddler-Approved: Nat gave it his seal of approval. He seemed to enjoy the ride and even took a few naps in it during our trip, which was a pleasant surprise!
Cons: Not Great for Rough Terrain
- Limited Wheel Performance: Here’s where the GB Pockit showed its limitations. The wheels are definitely built for smooth, flat surfaces. Anything other than a perfectly flat terrain—think sidewalk cracks, bumps, or uneven paths—became a bit of a battle. I found myself really needing to push with two hands to keep it steady and moving, which wasn’t ideal for everyday strolls (a previous trip with the wrong stroller–looking at you, City Select—was when my children learned to curse!! lol).
- Not Built for Bigger Toddlers: This stroller truly shines for younger kids, but with a 30-ish pound 3-year-old, it felt like it had aged out. While it’s marketed to handle up to around 55 lbs, maneuvering became more challenging as Nat grew. I’d say this stroller is probably best for kids under 25 lbs or around 2 years old.
What’s Next: A Stroller Dilemma
While the GB Pockit worked for this trip, I’m already thinking ahead to the next one. Next time, I’m leaning toward something different—either my old standby, the City Mini GT (real tires and great shock absorption, though I am suspicious that the newer model’s tires aren’t as good), or the Uppababy Minu (which I hope will be a happy medium between compact size and maneuverability). I’m pretty sure the Uppababy will still fit through the cruise cabin door if Sleeping Beauty is napping, whereas the City Mini GT will likely be too wide.
Final Thoughts: Is the GB Pockit Right for You?
The GB Pockit is definitely a great stroller if space is at a premium. If you’re traveling to places with smooth terrain and need something that takes up minimal space—like on a cruise or in a compact car—this stroller is worth considering. However, if you’re dealing with rougher sidewalks or larger toddlers, it might not be the easiest to handle.
Overall, it’s a solid option for the right trip, but I’ll probably be switching things up for future travels.
