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The Best Buggies for Seaside Holidays in the UK

Planning a seaside holiday with your little one? Finding the right buggy is essential to ensure comfort and convenience while enjoying the sun, sand, and sea. Whether you're heading to the sandy beaches of Cornwall, the sand dunes of Northern Ireland, or the coastal beauty of North Wales, selecting the best pushchair for your beach adventure can transform your family holiday experience.

Family at the beach with baby buggy

Why Choosing the Right Buggy Matters

When you're heading to the beach, it's not just about packing the sunscreen and beach toys. The right buggy can make all the difference in your holiday experience. Look for a pushchair that offers excellent manoeuvrability on sand, is lightweight for easy transport, and has features like a sunshade and a waterproof cover. Investing in a buggy that fits these criteria means you can focus on creating memorable moments with your family rather than worrying about your little one's comfort.

The best buggy for seaside holiday UK adventures needs to handle various challenges, from navigating soft sand to managing rough terrain near rocky coastlines. You'll want a stroller that can transition seamlessly from the car park to busy streets and ultimately onto the beach itself. The right travel stroller can make the difference between a stressful outing and a relaxing day by the sea.

Understanding Beach-Specific Challenges

Before diving into specific models, it's important to understand what makes beach conditions uniquely challenging for pushchairs. Sand presents several obstacles that standard pavements don't. Soft sand, in particular, can cause smaller wheels to sink and become stuck, making it nearly impossible to push a traditional umbrella stroller. Different terrain types—from packed sand near the water's edge to loose, dry sand higher up the beach—require versatile wheel configurations.

Additionally, seaside environments expose your pushchair to salt water, which can corrode metal components, and fine sand particles that can infiltrate joints and bearings. A quality beach-ready pushchair should have sealed bearings and easy-to-clean fabrics that won't trap sand permanently.

Top Features to Look For in a Beach Pushchair

Wheel Configuration and Size

A buggy designed for beach use should have a few key features. Firstly, a lightweight frame is crucial; it allows for easy transport from car to beach. Secondly, large, sturdy wheels help navigate over sandy surfaces without getting stuck. The best pushchair for seaside adventures typically features wheels measuring at least 20cm in diameter, with air-filled or foam-filled tyres that provide better traction on sand.

All-terrain rear wheels combined with a swivel wheel at the front offer the perfect balance of manoeuvrability and stability. Some models allow you to lock the front swivel wheel for added control on uneven surfaces. This feature proves invaluable when navigating sand dunes or transitioning from the beach to public transport.

Seat Comfort and Positioning

A reclining seat is essential for beach days, as your little one will likely need naps between swimming and sandcastle building. Look for a pushchair seat or seat unit that offers multiple recline positions, ideally including a lie flat seat option for newborns. This versatility ensures comfort whether your child wants to observe the waves or drift off to sleep.

The seat should also feature breathable fabrics that won't become uncomfortably hot in the sun. Some premium models include ventilation panels or mesh windows to improve airflow. Additionally, consider the ease of removing and washing the seat fabric—beach days inevitably mean sandy, potentially wet fabric that will need regular cleaning.

Sun Protection

UV protection is non-negotiable when spending extended periods at the beach. The best travel stroller for seaside holidays will include a sun canopy with UPF 50+ rating, offering comprehensive protection from harmful rays. Look for canopies that extend far enough to shade your child's entire body, not just their face.

Some models feature peek-a-boo windows in the canopy, allowing you to check on your child without disturbing their rest. Adjustable canopies that can pivot or extend provide flexibility as the sun's position changes throughout the day.

Storage Capacity

Beach days require substantial gear—towels, changing bags, beach toys, picnic supplies, and more. Ample storage space beneath the seat is crucial, with the best buggies offering baskets that can accommodate up to 10kg. Some models also feature additional pockets or attachable storage bags for items you need quick access to, such as sun cream or the best nappies for swimming.

When evaluating storage, ensure the basket remains accessible even when the seat is fully reclined. Some pushchairs have poorly designed storage that becomes unusable in certain configurations.

Travel-Friendly Features

For families arriving by car, a compact stroller that folds easily is essential. The best travel stroller models can be operated with one hand, allowing you to hold your child while collapsing the frame. Ultra-compact options can fit in even small car boots, though you may need to balance compactness with the robust features needed for beach use.

Many travel-friendly pushchairs now include a travel bag for protection during transport or flights, making them ideal for overseas beach holidays. If you're planning to use public transport to reach the beach, ensure your chosen stroller fits within size restrictions for buses and trains.

Compatibility and Versatility

A travel system that accepts a car seat offers tremendous convenience, allowing you to transfer your sleeping baby from car to pushchair without waking them. This feature is particularly valuable for longer journeys to coastal destinations. Ensure compatibility with your existing car seat or consider purchasing a compatible set.

For families with newborns, a pushchair that accommodates a carrycot provides a safe, comfortable sleeping environment suitable from birth. This attachment typically offers better ventilation and more space than a reclined seat, making it ideal for younger babies spending time at the beach.

Comprehensive Reviews: The Best Pushchairs for Seaside Holidays

Premium All-Terrain Options

Bugaboo Fox 5

The Bugaboo Fox represents the pinnacle of all-terrain pushchair design, making it an excellent choice for beach holidays. Its advanced suspension system and large wheels effortlessly handle soft sand and rough terrain. The seat offers multiple recline positions, including a lie flat seat suitable from birth.

What sets the Bugaboo Fox apart is its modular design—you can easily switch between the seat unit, carrycot, and compatible car seat adapters. The underseat basket provides generous storage, and the sun canopy extends to offer excellent coverage. The Fox 5 folds relatively compactly for such a robust pushchair, though it's heavier than dedicated lightweight buggies.

Key features:

View the Bugaboo Fox on Amazon

Bugaboo Butterfly

For those who love the Bugaboo brand but need something more travel-friendly, the Bugaboo Butterfly offers an impressive compromise. This compact stroller weighs just 7.3kg and folds down small enough to fit in an aeroplane overhead locker, yet still provides robust performance on various surfaces including sand.

The Butterfly features a reclining seat with multiple positions and a sun canopy that offers good coverage. While its smaller wheels mean it won't glide through deep soft sand quite as easily as the Fox, it performs admirably on packed sand and is significantly easier to transport. The one-hand fold mechanism is genuinely effortless, making it perfect for juggling a child and beach bags.

Key features:

View the Bugaboo Butterfly on Amazon | Compare with other cabin-friendly strollers

Thule Urban Glide 2

For families who prioritise outdoor adventures, the Thule Urban Glide 2 excels on challenging terrain. Originally designed as a jogging pushchair, its 16-inch rear wheels and front swivel wheel (which locks for jogging) handle beach conditions exceptionally well. The air-filled tyres provide excellent shock absorption across rough terrain and sand.

The reclining seat offers a near-flat position, and the multi-position canopy with peek-a-boo window ensures you can monitor your child. The large storage basket and additional pockets provide ample space for beach essentials. While bulkier than some alternatives, families who frequently explore diverse landscapes will appreciate its versatility.

Key features:

Mid-Range Versatile Options

Joolz Aer+

The Joolz Aer+ represents one of the best lightweight stroller options for families seeking portability without compromising on quality. Weighing just 6kg and folding into a compact package, it's designed specifically for travel. Despite its lightweight construction, the Aer handles sand surprisingly well thanks to its intelligent wheel design.

The reclining seat can be adjusted to near-flat, making it suitable for younger babies, and the extendable sun canopy provides excellent UV protection. The compact fold takes seconds and can be done with one hand, whilst the included carry strap and travel bag make transport effortless. For families who split their time between city breaks and beach holidays, the Joolz Aer offers outstanding versatility.

Key features:

View the Joolz Aer+ on Amazon | Read our comparison: YOYO vs Butterfly vs Aer

Ergobaby Metro+ Deluxe

The Ergobaby Metro+ Deluxe is another excellent compact stroller that punches above its weight in beach conditions. At 7.9kg, it's slightly heavier than some competitors, but this extra weight translates to better stability. The seat offers a generous recline, and the large canopy provides excellent sun protection.

What makes the Metro+ particularly family-friendly is its ability to accommodate a car seat with adapters, creating a functional travel system. The storage basket is larger than typical for compact pushchairs, and the height-adjustable handlebar suits parents of varying heights. While not specifically designed for sand, it performs adequately on packed beaches.

Key features:

View the Ergobaby Metro+ Deluxe on Amazon

Additional Recommended Models

Beyond our main recommendations, several other excellent options deserve consideration for your seaside adventures:

Premium Compact Options

The Babyzen YOYO² has become something of a legend in the travel stroller world. At just 6.2kg, it's one of the lightest full-featured pushchairs available and folds small enough for cabin luggage. While not specifically designed for beach use, its nimble handling makes it surprisingly capable on packed sand, and its compact size is perfect for crowded coastal car parks and public transport to the beach.

The Silver Cross Jet 5 offers British design heritage combined with practical travel features. Weighing 5.9kg, it's ultra-lightweight whilst maintaining a sturdy feel. The one-hand fold and included travel bag make it ideal for families combining beach holidays with other travel. The reclining seat and decent-sized sun canopy provide good comfort for little ones.

For families who value premium materials and design, the UPPAbaby MINU V2 delivers exceptional quality in a compact package. It handles various terrains well thanks to suspension and larger wheels, making it more capable on sand than many lightweight alternatives. The one-hand, one-piece fold is genuinely effortless, and the seat offers multiple recline positions with an extendable canopy.

Compare the top compact strollers

Mid-Range All-Rounders

The Joie Pact Lite represents excellent value for families seeking beach capability without premium pricing. Its larger wheels handle sand better than typical budget options, and the compact fold with automatic lock makes storage simple. The near-flat recline suits younger babies, and the adjustable leg rest adds comfort for toddlers.

For something slightly more robust, the Maclaren Quest combines the brand's legendary durability with practical features. The Quest's four-wheel design and sturdy construction handle various terrains including moderately packed sand. It reclines to near-flat and includes a large sun canopy with UPF 50+ protection—perfect for beach days.

The Silver Cross Zest offers premium features at a mid-range price point. Its lightweight aluminium frame (just 5.8kg) doesn't compromise on strength, and the pushchair handles bumpy terrain surprisingly well. The compact fold and included rain cover make it versatile for unpredictable British weather, whether you're at the beach or exploring best baby gear destinations across UK cities.

Travel System Compatible Options

If you need a pushchair that works with your existing car seat, several beach-capable options offer excellent compatibility:

The Cybex Coya combines German engineering with travel-friendly design. Compatible with Cybex car seats, it creates a versatile travel system whilst weighing just 7.4kg. The one-hand fold and carry strap make transitions smooth, and the wheels perform adequately on packed sand.

The Nuna TRVL takes its name seriously—designed specifically for travelling families. It accepts Nuna car seats and various others with adapters, transforming into a complete travel system. The magnetic buckle makes securing your child quick and simple, whilst the large sun canopy provides excellent protection. Although pricier, its beach performance and travel features justify the investment for frequent travellers.

Explore complete travel system options | Travel system vs lightweight stroller comparison

Budget-Friendly Beach-Capable Options

Baby Jogger City Tour 2

For families seeking the best value, the Baby Jogger City Tour 2 delivers impressive performance at an accessible price point. This lightweight stroller weighs just 6.4kg and folds exceptionally compactly, making it ideal for families with limited car boot space. The patented one-step fold with carry strap makes transitions from car park to beach straightforward.

The seat offers a near-flat recline and includes a sun canopy with flip-out visor for additional coverage. While the wheels are smaller than premium all-terrain models, they manage packed sand reasonably well. The Baby Jogger City Tour 2 represents a great option for families who visit the beach occasionally but need a versatile everyday pushchair.

Key features:

View the Baby Jogger City Tour 2 on Amazon | See more budget options under £200

Mountain Buggy Nano

The Mountain Buggy Nano combines the rugged DNA of Mountain Buggy's trail-ready designs with the convenience of a compact travel stroller. It's one of the few budget-friendly options with genuinely capable off-road performance. The larger wheels and robust suspension handle soft sand better than most compact competitors.

The Nano's reclining seat accommodates newborns comfortably, and it accepts a car seat with adapters. The compact fold is simple, and the pushchair can be pulled like a shopping trolley when folded. For families who enjoy countryside walks and beach visits, the Mountain Buggy Nano offers exceptional versatility without breaking the bank.

Key features:

View the Mountain Buggy Nano on Amazon

Specialist Options for Specific Needs

Double Buggy Solutions

Families with twins or two young children face additional challenges at the beach. A double stroller must balance beach capability with manoeuvrability and portability. Side-by-side models generally perform better on sand than tandem configurations, as the weight distribution is more balanced.

The Mountain Buggy Nano Duo is widely regarded as the best double buggy for off-road use, including beaches. Despite accommodating two children, it's narrower than most single pushchairs (just 63cm wide), allowing it to navigate doorways and busy streets easily. The air-filled rear wheels and swivel front wheels handle sand admirably, though the weight (15.4kg empty) means pushing through deep sand requires effort.

For a more compact double stroller, the Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Double offers excellent manoeuvrability with all-terrain wheels. It's lighter than the Mountain Buggy Duet but slightly wider. Both options accommodate car seat adapters and offer independent reclining seats with sun canopies.

Explore more double buggy options | Best double stroller for twins travel guide

Pushchair and Wagon Hybrids

An increasingly popular option for beach holidays is the wagon-style stroller. Wagons offer several advantages: children can face each other, there's substantial storage space, and the low centre of gravity provides stability on uneven surfaces. However, they're generally heavier and bulkier than traditional pushchairs.

Several manufacturers now produce wagons with all-terrain wheels designed specifically for beach use. These typically feature wider, balloon-style wheels that distribute weight effectively on sand. Most wagons don't offer the full recline positions needed for very young babies, making them more suitable for toddlers and older children who can sit upright comfortably.

Accommodation Essentials: Travel Cots for Beach Holidays

When planning your seaside holiday, accommodation sleeping arrangements are just as important as having the right pushchair. Many UK coastal accommodations don't provide cots, or those they do provide may not meet current safety standards. Bringing your own travel cot ensures your little one sleeps safely and comfortably throughout your beach break.

Premium Travel Cot Options

The BabyBjörn Travel Cot Light is the gold standard for portable sleeping solutions. At just 5kg, it's remarkably lightweight yet provides a comfortable sleeping space with excellent mesh sides for ventilation—crucial during warmer beach holidays. The setup takes literally seconds with no complicated mechanisms, and the included bag makes transport effortless.

For families seeking luxury, the Bugaboo Stardust combines beautiful design with practical features. This premium travel cot sets up in one second—a genuine advantage after a long journey to your coastal destination. The zip-down side allows you to comfort your baby without lifting them out, and the mattress is thicker and more comfortable than standard travel cots.

Mid-Range Choices

The Silver Cross Slumber offers British heritage and quality at a more accessible price point. Its breathable mesh sides provide excellent visibility, and the compact fold makes it manageable for car travel. The included mattress is comfortable, and at 8kg, it's still light enough for easy transport.

The Joie Dreamer represents excellent value, combining a travel cot with bassinet and changer attachments. For families with newborns heading to the beach, this versatile option adapts as your baby grows. The mesh sides provide good airflow, and the fold is relatively straightforward.

Premium Breathable Option

For summer beach holidays, the Nuna Sena Aire stands out with its unique breathable design. The zigzag leg design creates natural ventilation from underneath, whilst zippered mesh panels on the sides can be opened for maximum airflow. This makes it ideal for warm coastal accommodation without air conditioning.

Complete guide to travel cots | Best travel cot for newborns UK

Planning Your Beach Holiday: Complete Checklist

Beyond selecting the right pushchair and travel cot, comprehensive planning ensures a stress-free seaside holiday:

Essential Gear:

Documentation and Safety:

Accommodation Considerations:

Complete baby travel checklist UK | Holiday travel essentials

Practical Tips for Beach Days with Your Pushchair

Protecting Your Investment

Beach environments are harsh on equipment. To maximise your pushchair's lifespan:

  1. Rinse After Use: Even if your buggy appears clean, rinse it with fresh water after beach visits. Salt water and sand can cause long-term damage to mechanisms and fabrics. Pay particular attention to wheel axles and folding joints where sand accumulates.
  2. Regular Maintenance: Check wheels and swivel mechanisms regularly. Apply appropriate lubricant to moving parts if you notice resistance or unusual sounds. Most manufacturers provide specific maintenance instructions—follow these carefully.
  3. Fabric Care: Remove fabric components when possible and shake out sand before it becomes embedded. Most pushchair fabrics are machine washable, but check manufacturer guidelines. Air dry thoroughly to prevent mould growth.
  4. Wheel Inspection: Beach use accelerates tyre wear. Inspect tyres regularly for signs of damage or excessive wear. Air-filled tyres require regular pressure checks, whilst foam-filled alternatives may develop flat spots over time.

Making Sand Navigation Easier

Even the best buggy for seaside holiday UK adventures can struggle in deep soft sand. Here are strategies to improve performance:

Safety Considerations

Beach-specific safety considerations include:

Alternatives to Traditional Pushchairs for Beach Use

Baby Carriers and Slings

For some families, particularly those with younger babies or those visiting beaches with challenging access, a baby carrier offers advantages over any pushchair. Carriers allow you to navigate sand effortlessly, cool off in the water with your baby, and don't require rinsing and maintenance afterwards.

However, carriers aren't suitable for all-day use, especially in hot weather. They don't provide the sun protection of a sun canopy, and they limit your ability to carry beach essentials. Many families find a combination approach works best—using a pushchair for the journey and nap times, and a carrier for active beach exploration.

Read our guide to baby carriers and slings for travel | Best baby carrier for airport travel

Beach-Specific Equipment

Some retailers offer specialised beach mobility equipment, including:

Seasonal Considerations and Black Friday Opportunities

Timing Your Purchase

Pushchair pricing fluctuates throughout the year, with significant savings available during certain periods:

New vs second-hand travel strollers guide

Demonstrating Before Buying

Before committing to a purchase, visit retailers that allow you to test pushchairs in-store. Many larger stores have test tracks with various surfaces. While you can't test actual sand performance, you can evaluate:

Consider watching online video reviews from other parents, particularly those who specifically test pushchairs on beaches. Several parenting bloggers conduct thorough real-world tests that provide insights beyond manufacturer specifications.

Read our comprehensive buying guides | Best travel stroller brands UK

Regional Considerations Across the UK

Southern England Beaches

The sandy beaches of Cornwall, Devon, and Dorset are among the UK's most family-friendly, but they vary significantly in accessibility. Beaches with lifeguard services and facilities typically have better path access, making pushchair transport easier. However, some of the most beautiful coves require navigating steep paths or steps where even the best lightweight stroller becomes a hindrance.

Research your chosen beach beforehand using resources like the Marine Conservation Society's Good Beach Guide to understand access conditions. Beaches with Blue Flag status typically offer superior facilities including accessible pathways.

Northern Ireland Coastal Areas

Northern Ireland's coastline features dramatic sand dunes and expansive beaches, particularly along the Causeway Coast. Beaches like Portstewart Strand allow car access directly onto the beach, eliminating the need to push a buggy through deep sand. However, the wind can be fierce, so ensure your pushchair has excellent stability.

The sand dunes characteristic of this region create unique challenges—the soft, loose sand can be difficult to navigate. For exploring between dunes, an all-terrain option with large rear wheels proves invaluable.

Welsh Coast

North Wales features a diverse coastline from the sandy expanses of Anglesey to the more rugged Llŷn Peninsula. Many beaches have dedicated pathways and board-walks that make pushchair access straightforward. The popularity of these beaches means they can become crowded during peak season, making a manoeuvrable compact stroller advantageous on busy streets leading to and from the beach.

Scottish Coastline

Scotland's beaches, whilst often less crowded than southern counterparts, can be more challenging to access. Many of Scotland's most beautiful beaches require walking across significant stretches of soft sand. If planning a Scottish beach holiday, prioritise pushchair capability over compactness—the rougher terrain demands robust wheels and suspension.

Essential Accessories for Beach-Ready Pushchairs

Enhance your pushchair's beach performance with these accessories:

Universal Accessories

Beach-Specific Additions

Discover more must-have accessories | Travel accessories hub

Health and Comfort Considerations

Sun Safety

Whilst a comprehensive sun canopy is essential, it shouldn't be your only sun protection measure:

Hydration and Napping

Beach days are exhausting for little ones. Ensure your pushchair provides comfortable napping conditions:

Hygiene Practices

Beaches present various hygiene challenges:

Environmental Considerations

Sustainable Choices

The pushchair industry is gradually embracing sustainability. When selecting your beach-ready pushchair, consider:

Beach Etiquette

Protect the beaches you love:

Making Your Decision: Key Questions to Ask

Before purchasing your beach-ready pushchair, honestly assess your specific needs:

  1. How frequently will we visit the beach? If only occasionally, a versatile all-rounder might be more practical than a specialist model.
  2. What's our typical journey to the beach? Consider whether you need something compact for public transport or if car boot space allows a larger model.
  3. What's our child's age and size? Newborns require different features than toddlers—ensure compatibility with your current needs.
  4. What's our budget? Determine whether premium features justify higher costs for your usage pattern.
  5. Do we need additional versatility? If your pushchair serves multiple purposes (daily use, urban walking, country hikes), this influences the optimal choice.
  6. Are we planning more children? If so, consider longevity and whether the model remains suitable for subsequent children.

Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Beach Companion

Selecting the best pushchair for your seaside holidays ultimately depends on balancing multiple factors: your budget, your child's age, how frequently you'll visit beaches, and what other uses the pushchair will serve. Premium options like the Bugaboo Fox or Thule Urban Glide 2 offer exceptional performance across all terrains, including challenging soft sand and rough terrain, making them great options if beach holidays are a regular occurrence and you value durability.

For families prioritising portability and travel convenience, lightweight buggies like the Joolz Aer or Bugaboo Butterfly deliver impressive versatility. These compact strollers perform adequately on packed sand whilst excelling during the journey to your destination, whether that involves public transport or limited car boot space.

Budget-conscious families needn't compromise entirely—options like the Baby Jogger City Tour 2 and Mountain Buggy Nano provide capable performance at accessible price points. While they may not glide through deep sand as effortlessly as premium alternatives, they manage typical beach conditions well and offer the travel system compatibility many families require.

For families with multiple young children, investing in a quality double buggy designed for various terrains proves worthwhile. The initial investment pays dividends through several years of family beach adventures.

Remember that even the best buggy for seaside holiday UK adventures requires proper maintenance and realistic expectations. No pushchair will glide effortlessly through all sand conditions, but with the right choice and smart beach strategies, your pushchair becomes a valuable ally rather than a burden during family seaside holidays.

The British coastline offers incredible diversity—from the golden sandy beaches of Cornwall to the dramatic sand dunes of Northern Ireland and the accessible shores of North Wales. With the right pushchair, your family can explore this coastal beauty comfortably and safely, creating precious memories that will last a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any buggy on the beach?

While you can technically use any buggy, it's best to opt for one designed with beach conditions in mind. Standard umbrella strollers with small wheels will struggle significantly in soft sand. Look for pushchairs with larger wheels—ideally at least 20cm in diameter—and a sturdier frame to handle sand effectively. All-terrain models with robust suspension systems offer the best performance across different terrain types commonly encountered at British beaches.

What is the best lightweight buggy for beach holidays?

The best lightweight stroller for beach holidays balances portability with capable performance. The Joolz Aer stands out as an exceptional choice, weighing just 6kg whilst still handling packed sand admirably. The Bugaboo Butterfly offers slightly more robust beach performance at 7.3kg, making it another great option. For the ultimate in beach capability whilst maintaining relative portability, the Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 provides excellent all-terrain performance without excessive weight.

How do I keep my baby safe from the sun while at the beach?

Sun safety requires multiple approaches. Ensure your buggy has a sun canopy with UPF 50+ rating, and position the pushchair to maximise shade. Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to all exposed skin, reapplying every two hours and after water exposure. Dress your baby in UV-protective clothing, including a wide-brimmed hat. Consider timing beach visits outside peak UV hours (before 11 AM and after 3 PM). Always monitor your baby for signs of overheating, and ensure they stay well-hydrated.

Are there buggies that fold easily for travel?

Yes, numerous modern travel strollers fold easily for transport. The best travel stroller options feature one-hand fold mechanisms that operate in seconds. The Baby Jogger City Tour 2 folds compactly with a single step, whilst the Joolz Aer and Bugaboo Butterfly both collapse small enough to fit in aeroplane overhead lockers. When selecting a travel-friendly model, consider both the fold mechanism's ease and the final folded dimensions relative to your car boot or storage space.

What's the best storage solution for beach gear in a buggy?

The best pushchair for beach use should offer substantial underseat storage, ideally accommodating at least 5-8kg. Look for baskets that remain accessible when the reclining seat is in the flat position. The Bugaboo Fox and Thule Urban Glide 2 both feature particularly generous storage capacity. For additional organisation, consider attachable storage bags or pouches that hang from the handlebar for items requiring quick access, such as sun cream, snacks, or your mobile phone. However, avoid overloading handlebar storage as this can affect pushchair stability.

Should I choose an air-filled or foam-filled tyre for beach use?

Both options have merits for beach use. Air-filled tyres provide superior shock absorption and adapt better to uneven surfaces, making them excellent for rough terrain and varied beach conditions. However, they require maintenance—checking pressure regularly and risk punctures. Foam-filled tyres are maintenance-free and puncture-proof, offering decent performance on most beach surfaces whilst eliminating inflation concerns. For families who frequently visit multiple beach types and engage in varied outdoor activities, air-filled tyres offer better performance. For occasional beach visitors prioritising convenience, foam-filled alternatives suffice.

Can I use a travel system at the beach?

Yes, a travel system offers considerable convenience for beach holidays, particularly for younger babies. The ability to transfer your car seat directly onto the pushchair frame means your baby can remain sleeping undisturbed during the journey from car park to beach. However, ensure the base pushchair has adequate beach capability—many lightweight travel system bases have small wheels unsuited to sand. The best approach combines a capable pushchair frame with car seat compatibility, such as the Mountain Buggy Nano or Ergobaby Metro+ with appropriate adapters.

Complete guide to travel systems | Best travel system for newborn 2025

How do I clean my pushchair after a beach visit?

Proper post-beach cleaning extends your pushchair's lifespan significantly. Immediately after leaving the beach, remove any visible sand by shaking and brushing the fabric. Once home, rinse the entire frame with fresh water, paying particular attention to wheel axles, swivel mechanisms, and folding joints where sand accumulates and salt water can cause corrosion. Remove fabric components if possible and shake thoroughly before machine washing according to manufacturer instructions. Allow all components to dry completely before reassembling to prevent mould growth. Apply appropriate lubricant to moving parts if you notice any resistance.

What's the ideal wheel size for beach use?

Larger wheels perform significantly better on soft sand. Ideally, look for rear wheels measuring at least 25-30cm in diameter. The Thule Urban Glide 2's 16-inch rear wheels exemplify excellent beach performance, whilst even compact models like the Joolz Aer benefit from carefully designed wheel sizes that maximise sand capability within space constraints. Remember that wheel width matters too—wider wheels distribute weight better, preventing sinking in soft sand. The combination of adequate diameter and width, along with appropriate tyre type, determines overall beach performance.

Are double buggies practical for beach use?

Double strollers present additional challenges but remain practical with the right model. Side-by-side configurations generally perform better on sand than tandem designs due to balanced weight distribution. The Mountain Buggy Duet, despite accommodating two children, remains narrower than many single pushchairs and features wheels specifically designed for all-terrain use. However, be realistic about weight—even empty, double buggies are substantially heavier, and pushing through deep soft sand requires significant effort. Consider whether beach visits could work with a combination of single pushchair and baby carrier for your younger child.

When is the best time to buy a pushchair?

Significant savings are available during key sale periods. Black Friday sales in late November offer some of the year's best discounts, with premium models frequently reduced by 30-40%. January sales and end-of-summer clearances (August-September) also feature substantial reductions. Additionally, when manufacturers release new model versions, previous years' models receive significant discounts despite often having identical functionality. Research your preferred models thoroughly beforehand, as popular configurations sell out quickly during major sales events.

Do I need a special pushchair for Northern Ireland beaches?

Northern Ireland's beaches, particularly along the Causeway Coast, feature dramatic sand dunes and can experience fierce coastal winds. While you don't need a specialised regional model, prioritise pushchairs with excellent stability and robust construction. Models with a lower centre of gravity and substantial weight perform better in windy conditions. The large all-terrain wheels ideal for general beach use also excel on Northern Ireland's softer dune sand. Some beaches like Portstewart Strand allow vehicle access directly onto the beach, potentially eliminating difficult sand navigation entirely.

Can my pushchair go from car park to beach easily?

This depends on both your pushchair choice and the specific beach. Many UK beaches feature dedicated pathways, boardwalks, or at least packed paths from the car park to the beach, making the journey straightforward with any decent-quality pushchair. However, some beautiful beaches require traversing considerable distances of soft sand or navigating steep paths and steps. Research your chosen beach beforehand—facilities information is typically available through local council websites or the Marine Conservation Society's Good Beach Guide. For challenging access, consider whether using a baby carrier for the journey and establishing the pushchair on the beach might prove more practical.

City and public transport guide | Car travel and road trips with baby

Can I take my pushchair on a plane?

Yes, most airlines allow pushchairs to be gate-checked, meaning you can use them right up to boarding. However, cabin-friendly strollers that fit in the overhead locker offer more convenience, allowing you to keep the pushchair with you during the flight. Models like the Bugaboo Butterfly, Babyzen YOYO², and Joolz Aer+ are specifically designed to meet cabin luggage dimensions. Always check your specific airline's requirements before travel.

Best stroller for airplane travel | Complete guide to flying with a baby | Air travel with baby hub

Additional Resources

For further guidance on family travel with young children, explore these helpful articles:

For official beach safety information and tide times, consult the Met Office Beach Forecasts and the RNLI Beach Safety guidance before your visit.