Strollers and Public Transportation

By Sarah Henderson
In recent days there has been a lot of buzz about going green and many have tried to do their part to help, and this often means using alternate forms of transportation, like buses and subways. However, traveling with your little ones may require a little extra planning

If walking or jogging is your preferred means of alternate transportation then you’ve got it made. I mean after all that is why strollers were invented! No matter where you’ve been or where you’re going, there is a stroller that fits your needs. Check out this stroller buying guide and some stroller reviews to find the perfect model for you.

For parents traveling in the big city you may need to utilize the area’s public transportation. If you know you’ll need to hop on a bus, there are a few things to keep in mind when you’re looking for a stroller.

First of all, make sure its portable. The lighter and more compact your model is, the easier it will be to take wherever you need to go. Also, make sure that your stroller is super easy to fold. The Quinny Zapp 4 (pictured left) is the ideal portable stroller. Some buses have an area where you put your stroller as is, but in case that’s full, or a passenger in a wheelchair boards the bus you may have to quickly take action.

Most public transit authorities have their own set of guidelines as to what strollers permissible. For example, the Regional Transportation District prohibits jogging strollers or high capacity strollers to remain open on the bus. Generally, strollers are not allowed to sit in the isle and any stroller that does not occupy a child must be folded. Be sure to check and see what the regulations are in your area.

A lot of mommies and daddies complain about the hassle of public transportation, but things appear to be looking up. The Tri Delta Transit is just one example of how things are changing for the better for parents. In 2006, 100 percent of Tri Delta busses were equipped with an area for strollers to be placed. Each bus can accommodate 2-4 open strollers. In addition to this a lift could be utilized for easier access.

If you are using a special needs stroller this is treated much like a wheelchair. The child is permitted to stay in the open stroller during the ride and takes president over tradition strollers.

So whether you and baby are traveling near or far, be sure that you have a stroller thats in it for the long haul!
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