QuickSmart Back Pack Stroller

After reading about the QuickSmart Back Pack Stroller online, I was so excited for it to arrive so I could put it to use. But when the box appeared on our front porch, I instantly dreaded the inevitable “some assembly required” that typically stands between receiving the product and the first chance to use it. However, I was pleasantly surprised when I opened the box that the stroller came in and found the stroller completely assembled! I quickly realized I shouldn’t have been so surprised: The biggest selling point of the Back Pack Stroller is that it folds down so compactly that it fits into a backpack for easy travel and easy storage in a closet at Grandma’s house or the trunk of a compact car. Certainly, if it can fit into a backpack, it can fit—fully assembled—into a box to be shipped to my house.
Once the packing materials were removed from the stroller, I began reading the manual. The step-by-step instructions and illustrations were easy to follow. With just a few very simple steps, the stroller was unfolded and my 2-year-old was in it waiting to go for a walk. The design of the product is like no other stroller I’ve seen. I would say it looks very European, and several strangers have complimented the design as well.
The first thing I noticed is that it has three wheels, one in the front and two in the back. This makes it very easy to turn as there is just one pivoting wheel in the front instead of two (which always seem to be going in different directions). The two rear wheels are several inches wider than a typical stroller of this size. At first, I didn’t think this was such a big deal, but I have been known to run into many doorframes and racks at stores with these back wheels. I’m sure the wheel-base is wider to provide more stability, but it does take some getting used to.
The stroller has a 5-point harness. The buckles are very easy to clip and unclip, and the straps are simple to adjust. The shoulder straps can be adjusted up the back of the stroller as your child gets taller. I would highly recommend using the shoulder straps no matter the age of your child as the stroller tips easily if its passenger leans too far to one side or the other. Initially, I only used the waist harness to strap in my 2-year-old, but quickly learned he can tip the stroller when reaching for items on a rack at a clothing store. Once I used the shoulder straps, he could no longer lean far enough to tip the stroller. Problem solved!A third characteristic that sets this product apart from the others I’ve tried is the design of the seat itself. A typical umbrella stroller has a simple sling design that forms to the child’s body. The Quicksmart Back Pack Stroller has a chair-like seat. The seat bottom is square and the back is rectangular, allowing for my son to have room on either side of him. He can put a sippy cup or a toy next to him and still be comfortable. He sits in this stroller much longer than he does in other strollers we’ve used. The stroller also boasts a good-sized, retractable sun visor to provide a bit of shade for outdoor errands.
This stroller features an extra tall handle, a small mesh pocket on the back of the seat, and a one foot-braking design. I’m not that tall, at 5’6”, but I have to say I appreciate the taller handle. I don’t have to lean forward to push the stroller. Definitely a back-saver! The pocket on the back of the stroller is the perfect size for your keys and wallet or cellphone. The footbrake is only on one back wheel and takes some effort to fully engage, but once engaged, holds the stroller in place very well.
The Quick Smart Back Pack Stroller is best known for its compact fold. In four simple steps, the 11-pound stroller becomes compact enough to fit into its included backpack, which can be accommodated by most overhead storage bins in an airplane. I love that the stroller lets us avoid checking the stroller planeside, but I’m also really impressed by how sturdy and substantial the stroller is despite its size. I was expecting it might be flimsy or cheap-feeling, but it’s really suited for regular use. If you are looking for a product that makes travel a breeze, stores easily at Grandma’s house or in a small apartment, fits into any trunk with ease, and offers a comfortable ride and push, this is the stroller for you.
Price: $170
To buy: wayfair.com