8 cheap prams that don’t compromise on safety and comfort
Because not everyone needs an in-built phone speaker…
And when we say ‘cheap prams’ it doesn’t MEAN poor quality – we’re still looking for safety and comfort.
It’s no secret that some prams on the market are super expensive. So much so that it’s almost necessary to take out a mortgage just to be able to afford one.
However, this doesn’t mean more cheaper prams are bad. In fact, there are plenty of amazing options out there that won’t cost you a pretty penny. You might not get all the fancy features of a luxury pram, but hey, not everyone needs a seat warmer, an in-built phone speaker or multiple seating options.
There are so many excellent quality, budget-friendly prams available, that still have all the features needed for safe, comfortable transportation. Below, we’ve rounded up a few of our favourites.
2024’s top cheap prams
- Ickle Bubba Discovery Max, $199, Amazon AU (here’s why)
- Valco Snap Ultra P Stroller, $373.10 (usually $395.10), Big W (here’s why)
- VeeBee Navigator 4 Foldable Stroller, $239, Amazon AU (here’s why)
The most affordable prams for 2024
1. Ickle Bubba Discovery Max
from $199 at Amazon AU
Lightweight, cheaper pram with extras
Suitable from birth to toddler, this Ickle Bickle multifunctional stroller adapts as your child grows, this bundle comes with a pram foot warmer, change bag and mat, and two car window shades.
Weighing just 6kg, it’s never been easier to take the kids to school or go on an outing, with its all-round suspension and lockable front wheel function.
The leatherette handle bars and breathable fabrics provide maximum style and comfort for many adventures.
Key features:
- Suitable for babies 6 months to 22kg (around 4 years old) with a footmuff, cupholder, and rain cover.
- One-handed 3-position seat recline
- UPF 50+ adjustable hood
- Weighs only 7kg with a portable aluminum frame; folds easily for storage and includes a carry strap.
- Front and rear suspension for comfort on all terrains; compatible with a travel system for easy seat attachment.
- Leatherette handle and gate-opening bumper bar for easy access, plus a roomy bottom basket for storage.
Available at:
- $199 from Amazon AU
2. Valco Snap Ultra P Stroller
from $449.10 at Big W
Great cheap pram for parent and forward facing
Building on the ultralight chassis of Valco Baby’s Snap, the Snap Ultra Pivot adds an ergo pivot seat.
With three recline positions, it can be installed either forward or rear facing, or completely removed and replaced with the Q Bassinet or your car capsule.
Folding is compact and convenient, allowing you to fold the entire unit without having to remove the seat first!
Key features:
- From newborn to 20kg
- Tubeless tyres
- Ergo Pivot seat
- 3 position full recline
- 12 month warranty
Available at:
- $449.10 from Big W
- $449.10 from Kogan
- $399 from Baby Bunting
3. VeeBee Navigator 4 Foldable Stroller
from $259 (usually $319) at Amazon AU
Sturdy but lightweight for everyday use
A great stroller for everyday adventures with bub, the Navigator 4 is a budget-friendly stroller that’s packed with features to keep your baby safe and comfortable at all times.
Complete with a lightweight yet robust frame, this folding stroller is built for easy one-handed operation, allowing for effortless manoeuvrability on the go.
Key features:
- From newborn to 22kg
- Multi-position recline
- Large storage basket
- Removable parent tray
Available at:
4. Safe-n-Sound Weekender Stroller
from $129 (usually $149) at Big W
The perfect quick action stroller
This lightweight stroller features a self-standing fold, making it easy to store and carry with the built-in strap.
Don’t let its small size fool you – this stroller features a near-flat recline for comfy naps on the go and a 6kg easy-access basket for all your essentials.
Key features:
- Extra large UPF50+ canopy
- One-hand recline with 3 modes: Choose from upright (awake), semi-recline (nap), or near-flat (sleep) for newborns.
- Harness pads: Soft padding adds extra comfort for your child.
- Adjustable carry strap
- Generous 6 kg basket capacity
- Lockable front swivel wheels
- EVA Wheels: Lightweight and puncture-free for a hassle-free ride.
Available at:
5. Joie Nitro Stroller
from $199 at Baby Bunting
Reputable brand at a low price point
With a lightweight chassis and a compact-fold umbrella, every stroll is a breeze with the Nitro stroller.
Sneaking in at just under $200, it’s hard to walk by this budget stroller from Joie.
Ready to roll with everything needed to keep you and your mini strolling with ease, this pram is designed and engineered to keep up with your child from newborn onwards. It’s built to last and designed to go and go and go – with 100% of the highest quality materials and comfort-inspired upgrades like an adjustable leg rest, a soft bar and harness covers.
Key features:
- From newborn to 22kg
- Weighs 7.8kg
- Light, umbrella chassis
- 4.5kg capacity basket
Available at:
- $199 from Baby Bunting
6. Childcare Jax V2 3-wheel stroller
from $179.99 from Baby Bunting
Affordable sporty style on a budget
The compact and sporty three-wheel Jax stroller is the perfect lightweight solution for getting out and about.
It comes loaded with convenient features such as a handy in-built parent tray to keep essentials close on hand, a multiple position fully reclining seat, front-wheel suspension and one-foot brake for added peace of mind when parking.
Key features:
- Weighs 6.7kg
- From newborn to 17kg
- Multi recline
- Compact flat fold
Available at:
- $179.99 from Baby Bunting
7. BeBeCare Mira DLX Stroller
from $116.10 (usually $159.99) from Brosa
Compact and easy to carry budget stroller
Designed with babies and parents in mind, this pram enables you to take on the challenges of family travel without missing a step!
It features a large extendable hood, four position full recline and a five-point safety harness to keep your child comfortable at all times.
It also folds into a compact, ensuring no matter where you go your Mira DLX Stroller will too.
Key features:
- From newborn to 20kg
- 4 position recline
- Compact and easy to carry
- 5kg basket capacity
Available at:
8. Britax Safe n Sound Move EZ
from $229 from Big W
Affordable stroller from a well-known brand
This everyday stroller for busy parents brings comfort and ease, thanks to its adjustable leg rest, adjustable recline, height adjustable handlebar, removable arm bar (including cup/bottle holder) and insect net.
Wonderful for parents on the go.
Key features:
- From newborn
- 3 position recline
- 6kg basket capacity
- Compatible with Britax Safe-n-Sound Unity, Maxi-Cosi Mico & Nuna KLIK Plus Baby Capsules
Available at:
Buying a stroller on a budget
When is a good time to buy a cheaper stroller?
Sales, sales, sales! Amazon has a mid-season sale, as does Myer. You can keep an eye out for Amazon Prime Day sales (in July) and Black Friday in November. You could also add an alert to Google Alerts so you get notified when a brand you like has a special offer.
What is your stroller for?
Think about how you’re going to use your stroller. If catching the bus or train, look for a budget stroller that is light and folds down easily. For shopping, choose a pram or stroller that has a good sized basket, but that isn’t too wide. Sporty parents might want to consider inflatable tyres so the bub is comfortable on those walks and runs. Big wheels also make it more comfy if you’re someone who likes to walk in the park or bush.
Safety features
- Ensure the stroller has a proper harness
- Make sure the seat fits your child comfortably and safely
- Check that you can manage the weight of the stroller, so you don’t injure yourself
- Consider if it meets Australian safety standards
Is it ok to buy a second hand stroller?
Yes! It’s absolutely ok to buy a pre-loved stroller.
Look for Australian-made prams that reach the Safety Standards as they are generally sturdy and made to last. Check for wear around tear to the harness (which can be replaced quite cheaply), wheels and frame. Is there any rust, screws or fittings that appear to be missing?
Most parents won’t onsell a cheap stroller if they know it’s unreliable or dangerous, but remember: buyer beware.
