EDITOR’S NOTE
The Bugaboo Ant is being phased out and discontinued. The newest lightweight stroller from the brand is the Bee 6. It’s a super-compact stroller with a self-standing fold, performance fabrics, a rotating bumper bar, and even included car seat adapters. However, this larger and heavier version will not fit in airline overhead compartments. For that, stick with the Babyzen YOYO2.
The new Bugaboo stroller stings like a bee 
The smallest fold on the Babyzen YOYO2 
If you are searching for a Bugaboo stroller, there is a good chance you are fully aware they are like the Mercedes Benz of strollers. They’re pretty fancy. I certainly was thrilled to write this Bugaboo Ant stroller review because I have a love for strollers that bring all the bells and whistles along with them.
Celebrities have been spotted pushing their little ones around in Bugaboo strollers, but do you need one?
Allow me to detail every advantage of the Bugaboo Ant, along with some disadvantages worth mentioning.
Features of the Bugaboo Ant Stroller
Lightweight Design
The Bugaboo Ant stroller is the most lightweight of any Bugaboo stroller, coming in at 15.8 lbs. The lightweight design makes it a great choice for traveling. It even comes with a convenient handle so you can walk around with it, just as you would a suitcase.
It’s so much better than lugging it around on your shoulder or pushing an empty stroller around. While it appears that this best high-end stroller is better suited for travel or city life, it’s a great option for everyday life in suburbia as well.
Compact Fold
The compact fold of the Bugaboo Ant is one of my favorite features. When folded up, it’s compact enough to put in most overhead compartments on an airplane. In addition, nothing sticks out from the stroller when it’s folded up. It sits nice and tidy. It looks like a suitcase when it’s all folded up. You may forget you are even pulling a stroller.
While the compact fold is great for traveling, it also makes it easy to put in the majority of car trunks for everyday use. It could even fit sideways in some back seats.
Adjustable Two-View Seat
The seat on the Bugaboo Ant is incredibly versatile and has an adjustable two-view seat. Firstly, you can choose for your child to either face in towards you or outward for them to check out their surroundings.
I, personally, loved having my little ones facing me when they were really small. Being able to watch them gave me a sense of security. Don’t hesitate to turn your two-year-old towards you either! They may love it just as much as you do. It’s the perfect set-up to have a sweet conversation with your little one or keep an eye out while they are having a snack.
You don’t typically see the parent-facing feature in the lightweight strollers, so this was definitely an added bonus of the Bugaboo Ant.
Finally, the process to change directions of your seat isn’t flawless but the ability to do so makes up for it, right? Here are some steps to help you go from forward-facing to rear-facing.
- Slide the backrest down.
- Fold in your canopy.
- Fold in the leg rest and push the seat all the back.
- You then are able to slide the seat out of the frame and reverse it to the direction of your choosing.
While you may be frustrated by the steps necessary to switch the seat around, remember that having a two-view seat is a luxury feature when it comes to lightweight strollers.
Recline Features
In addition to having a reversible seat, it also has the ability to recline. How much you can recline the seat does depend on which position it is facing. Keep in mind, it does not fully lay flat when reclined, so it is not ideal for newborns.
Firstly, the forward-facing position has two seat positions, one that partially reclines and one where your child sits upright. Unfortunately, the handlebar gets in the way of it reclining any further. So if your child falls asleep in the stroller, they won’t be able to recline much for a nap.
Secondly, when your child is rear-facing, you have the option of three different recline positions: upright, recline, and almost flat. If you anticipate your child napping on a walk, I recommend starting them facing you, so you are able to recline the seat more.
Finally, while I wish the seat could lay completely flat, I do really appreciate the upright position. No more hunching over to buckle your little one in!
Ample Amount of Storage
While some lightweight strollers don’t provide a large amount of storage underneath, the Bugaboo Ant has a generously sized storage basket. In fact, it holds up to 17.6 lbs of cargo.
Firstly, you actually get two different storage areas. The larger basket underneath is perfect for your diaper bag and the mesh storage area can hold diapers and other things you want easy access to. It sits on the back of the stroller making it easy to grab things out of it.
In addition, what I really like is the fact you can access the storage basket when the stroller is folded up. It makes it so convenient to leave your belongings in the stroller without having to find a place to store them. My only drawback is the sides of the storage basket could be a bit higher to make sure nothing is lost on your walk.
Finally, if your baby is facing you, you may find it hard to access the storage basket. This is especially true if your little one’s legs and feet are in the way.
Adjustable Handlebar
As a tall person, I appreciate it when I don’t have to slump over the handlebar in order to push a stroller. It’s uncomfortable and makes my back hurt. So, I love the adjustable handlebar on the Bugaboo Ant. It means it is easy for whoever is pushing the stroller to find their preferred height.
The handlebar has two adjustable settings, 37.4″ and 40.9″. On smooth terrain, the handlebars work great. However, if you choose a bumpier ground, you may notice you lose your handlebar setting easily.
If you and your significant other differ in height, you will really appreciate the ability to adjust the handlebar height.
Finally, while the adjustable handlebars are a great feature, in theory, they are a bit awkward when fully extended.
Built for Growing Children
Firstly, the Bugaboo Ant can accommodate infants to toddlers up to 50 pounds. Since the seat does not completely recline, it’s recommended to begin use of the seat when your baby is at least 6 months of age. However, you are able to attach a car seat to the stroller, which isn’t something you see with all lightweight strollers.
Keep in mind, you will need to buy the Bugaboo Ant adapter in order to snap your car seat onto the stroller. Also, you will not be able to collapse the stroller when the adapter is in place. Unfortunately, the adapter is only compatible with the following Euro car seats:
- Clek Ling
- Nuna Pipa Lite
- Cybex Aton 2
- Maxi Cosi Carseats
- Bugaboo Turtle One
Secondly, the stroller has a five-point harness, ensuring your child is secure while strolling around. In addition, the stroller is built with an ergonomic seat, providing a supportive place for your child’s neck, back, and legs.
As a note, make sure the seat is adjusted to your child’s height before attempting to buckle them in, otherwise, the straps will not fit correctly.
Finally, you can use a Bugaboo wheeled board with the Bugaboo stroller for older kiddos. The board allows your older child to either sit or stand, depending on what height you have it set at. In addition, you can click it into an up position if it doesn’t have a rider.
Supportive Seat
The Bugaboo Ant provides a supportive seat for your little one to sit. It is reinforced with plastic, making it a durable place for your child to use time and time again.
In addition, when in the highest position, your child is completely upright which will offer a more natural sitting position, as opposed to other strollers that are slightly reclined in their highest setting. Make sure you squeeze the buckle on the back of the seat to ensure it is fully upright.
You will likely notice the seatback is a bit narrow and your child will likely have their hands hanging over the sides of the stroller. Younger kiddos won’t have much as a problem but you will probably notice it as your child gets taller. I don’t like that it doesn’t offer side support because they can easily get their arms caught in doorways.
Finally, if you notice your child’s legs aren’t quite comfortable, consider the Bugaboo leg rest. Bugaboo didn’t include the leg rest to ensure the stroller was as lightweight as possible. However, adding the leg rest will add some comfort to your child as it has three different adjustable heights. You are able to fold up the stroller when the leg rest is attached, which I find to be beneficial.
Smooth Ride
The Bugaboo Ant provides a smooth ride on most surfaces. If you plan on doing any off-roading, the stroller is not your best option. However, it’s a great choice for every day walking around the neighborhood, using it for errands, or walking around the airport.
The frame is incredibly sturdy and the stroller is equipped with wheel suspension, ensuring a smooth ride. The Bugaboo brand is known for its durable frames that last time and time again.
Shock-Absorbent Wheels
To ensure a smooth ride, the Bugaboo Ant is equipped with shock-absorbent wheels. They are smaller, however, they prove size doesn’t matter.
The wheels help the stroller maneuver easily, even with just one hand. The wheels can even handle the occasional pothole without the concern of the stroller tipping over. While I don’t recommend hiking with the stroller, you can feel comfortable walking sidewalks without a problem.
Adjustable Canopy
I’ve tried out plenty of strollers where the canopy pretty much offers no coverage. I’m not actually sure why it was even there.
The Bugaboo Ant’s canopy provides your little one with SPF 50+ protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays. You can even adjust the height on the canopy as your child grows, which I find to be very beneficial. The third panel of the canopy can easily be opened by the zipper.
If you recline your child at all, you will lose some of that protection, so it’s important to make sure they are lathered up with one of the best baby sunscreens.
Finally, as your child grows, you likely will notice the canopy will get in the way of their headspace. This is definitely a complaint about the Bugaboo Ant. Taller children seem to outgrow the stroller quicker.
Stylish Design
While simple, I find the Bugaboo Ant to have a sleek, stylish design. In addition, there are three color choices: black, grey melange, and blue. The price does vary depending on which color you choose.
As a note, a peek-a-boo window is only available in the grey melange style. I do wish this was an option for any of the colors and not just the grey.
Finally, while the adjustable handlebars are nice, you may or may not love how tall they are. It’s all part of the design for the Bugaboo Ant, however, they definitely stand out more than other strollers.
Complex Fold
The Bugaboo Ant isn’t particularly difficult to fold, it just has more steps than a typical lightweight stroller. Five steps to be exact! Here’s a rundown in case you’ve been scratching your head over how to fold it up. Make sure your brake is on before you begin folding and that your front wheels are facing out.
- Push in the sides of the canopy until you hear a click on either side.
- Push down on the seat until it reaches its shortest height.
- Next, pull the lever on the back of your seat. Then push it forward until it fits in the frame.
- Detach the lock on the side of the Ant and push the wheels in to collapse the frame.
- Lower the handlebar until it is locked in place.
Get all that? I recommend trying this out in your living room a few times before you attempt it out of the house. Even once you master the process, you will still likely need both hands to fold it up. I do appreciate that the stroller can stand on its own once it is folded up.
Finally, when folded, the stroller measures 21.65″ H x 14.96″ W x 9.03″ L. This is without the handlebar sticking up to pull it around.
Unique Benefits of the Bugaboo Ant
Exceptionally Lightweight
If you are searching for a lightweight stroller, the Bugaboo Ant delivers just that. While it may not be the lightest stroller on the market, it weighs less than traditional strollers which makes it easier to get in and out of your car. It’s also the lightest one Bugaboo has to offer, so if you love the brand, it will be the smallest one you can find from them.
If you anticipate having to carry around your stroller often, the Bugaboo Ant is where it’s at. It provides you with the lightweight option of not having to actually carry it and gives you the option of pulling it around like a suitcase.
Check out our list of the best lightweight strollers if you don’t need all the bells and whistles the Bugaboo Ant comes with.
Fits in Airline Overhead Bins or Small Car Trunks
If you travel often, this is the stroller for you. Once you master the folding technique, it is so compact and ideal for airplanes or trains. There aren’t many strollers you can fit in the overhead compartment on an airplane so that definitely scores it extra points.
It also conveniently fits into the majority of car trunks and unlike other strollers, it doesn’t have an awkward shape when folded up.
Reversible Seat
If you are searching for a lightweight stroller, you won’t find many that can face in or out. When my kids were little, I loved being able to have them face in so I could keep an eye on them. A reversible seat on a lightweight stroller is definitely a unicorn which makes the Bugaboo Ant rank high for me.
Concerns About the Bugaboo Ant
High Price Tag
If you are familiar with Bugaboo strollers, you know they don’t come cheap. For some, a lightweight stroller is a secondary stroller, just mainly for travel. You don’t want to spend a ton of money on a secondary stroller. I certainly don’t. This is where the high price tag turns me off.
Difficult to Fold
I love strollers that fold with just one click. Most moms are usually balancing a baby on one hip while trying to fold up their stroller. While the Bugaboo Ant has a lot going for it, its folding system rates low for me. While I find the stroller to be very neat, I don’t want to spend several minutes attempting to fold up the stroller. I’m sure you get used to it but I appreciate the one-hand fold strollers.
As mentioned previously, I recommend doing a few test runs at home before venturing out with the stroller to make sure you are fully trained in the folding process. I remember at my son’s 3-day appointment, I could not figure out how to unfold my stroller and therefore had to carry the car seat into the doctor’s office, 3 days postpartum. Don’t be like me.
You definitely will want to master the fold before you attempt to go through airport security with it.
Expensive Accessories
Any accessories you want to add to the Bugaboo Ant aren’t going to come cheap. I wouldn’t mind this as much if the stroller came with more, to begin with. Plan on buying even the basics, like a parent cup holder. I was disappointed to see the stroller didn’t even come with at least one of those.
In addition, there is no snack tray currently on the market for the Bugaboo Ant. This is a huge drawback as it’s always nice to have something for the kiddos.
Not Ideal for Taller Children
While the weight capacity goes up to 50 lbs, you likely will use your child’s height to determine if it is still a good fit for them. Due to the narrow fit of the stroller, you may notice your child will outgrow it by the time they are 2-2.5 years old, even if they come in lower than the weight limit.
I do find this frustrating because my children are taller and if I’m going to spend a lot of money on a stroller, I want to be able to use it for a long time.
The Bugaboo Ant vs The Maxi Cosi Lara
If lightweight is your goal, consider the Maxi Cosi Lara. While the Bugaboo Ant has a few more features, the Maxi Cosi will be much gentler on your wallet.
Similarities
Firstly, both strollers fit children up to 50 pounds and offer upright and reclined seating options. Each stroller is compact when folded and the Maxi Cosi even comes with a carrying strap, while the Bugaboo Ant can be pulled around like a suitcase. They both can fit in most overhead compartments on airplanes.
Secondly, both strollers offer a canopy with sun protection to keep your little one away from those pesky UV rays. Each stroller offers an adjustable canopy to ensure your child is protected.
Finally, they both offer a smooth ride for your little one and maneuver well.
Differences
Firstly, The Maxi Cosi weighs 14 lbs, compared to the 15.8 of the Bugaboo Ant. One of the biggest differences is the Maxi Cosi does not have a two-view seat, unlike the Bugaboo which can face in or out. Another thing you’ll notice is the price. The Bugaboo Ant costs more than twice as much as the Maxi Cosi. A little sticker shock, right?
Secondly, while both strollers offer storage space, the Maxi Cosi has a double-decker storage area. Yes, please! While the upper storage isn’t huge, it’s nice to have extra space to put things for you and your baby. In addition, the Bugaboo Ant doesn’t come equipped with a parent cupholder, unlike the Maxi Cosi.
Thirdly, the Maxi Cosi has only one height for its handlebars and overall sit a bit lower than the Bugaboo Ant. If you are tall, this may be a problem. For reference, the dimensions of the Maxi Cosi are 21″ x 17.25″ x 10.25″.
Finally, car seats are not compatible with the Maxi Cosa, like they are with the Bugaboo Ant. However, you will enjoy a one-hand fold with the Maxi Cosi, unlike the Bugaboo Ant.
The Bugaboo Ant vs The Babyzen YOYO2
Very comparable to the Bugaboo Ant is the Babyzen YOYO2. With several similarities, you may question which one is best for you.
Similarities
Firstly, the price tags are basically the same for the two strollers. In addition, they both are car seat compatible, making the stroller ready to use the day you bring your little one home from the hospital. You can attach a buggy board to either stroller, turning it into a spot for an older child to sit or stand.
Secondly, both strollers fold up compact and allow for easy travel. The Bugaboo Ant can be wheeled around like a suitcase, while the YOYO2 comes with a carrying shoulder strap.
Both strollers offer a high handlebar for easy pushing. While the handlebar on the Bugaboo Ant is adjustable, the YOYO2 actually sits higher (at 41.7″) than the highest setting on the Bugaboo Ant (40.9″).
Differences
Firstly, the YOYO2 is easier to fold than the Bugaboo Ant, which is a nice plus. It only requires two steps to fold vs. the 5 required for the Bugaboo Ant. The YOYO2 unfolds much easier as well.
In addition, there are more car seats compatible with the YOYO2. The weight capacity is slightly less in the YOYO2 at 48 lbs vs the 50 lb limit the Bugaboo Ant provides.
Secondly, the adjustable seat height on the Bugaboo Ant sets it apart from the YOYO2. With the Bugaboo Ant, you can adjust the seat from 15-22 inches. The YOYO2 has one seat height of 17 inches.
In addition, the Bugaboo Ant continues to set itself apart from others on the market by offering a two-view seat. The seat itself is also more comfortable on the Bugaboo Ant.
Thirdly, the YOYO2 offers a peek-a-boo window to be able to check on your little one. Unfortunately, this is only offered in the Grey Melange style of Bugaboo Ant.
Finally, the YOYO2 is an overall lighter stroller, weighing only 12.8 lbs compared to the 15.8 lbs of the Bugaboo Ant. That’s a whole three pounds difference!
FAQs About the Bugaboo Ant
How do I clean the Bugaboo Ant?
Simple messes can easily be wiped clean but what about the bigger ones? The fabric seat on the Bugaboo Ant can be detached and is machine washable. It’s best to hang dry to allow any excess water to drip off.
It is not recommended to run the adjustable canopy through the wash. Stick to a washcloth and warm water for that.
Can I use the Bugaboo Ant with a newborn?
The U.S. version of the Bugaboo Ant does not recline fully and therefore is not suitable for newborns unless they are in their car seat and attached to the stroller. While Bugaboo sells a baby cocoon for the tiniest of infants, it must be used with a completely flat seat.
Can I take the Bugaboo Ant on an airplane?
Have you ever checked a stroller curbside at an airport and hoped for the best? I sure have. While the airplane attendants try their hardest, I have also received damaged strollers after traveling. The good news with the Bugaboo Ant is it is compact enough to fit in most overhead compartments on airplanes, meaning it doesn’t have to leave your side. This surely is music to our ears.
Why are Bugaboo strollers so pricey?
The price tag on Bugaboo strollers can certainly turn some people off but are they worth it? Firstly, the brand uses high-quality materials when making its products. In addition, you likely will get much more use out of it than you would other strollers on the market. They are built to last.
Bugaboo strollers have sturdy frames to provide a smooth ride for your little one. If you consider you will use it for multiple years and, perhaps, more than one child then it’s definitely a worthwhile investment. Also, they have a good resale value so you may end up getting some of your money back at some point!
When do kids outgrow strollers?
This certainly can vary from one child to the next. The weight limit on the Bugaboo Ant is 50 lbs which is fairly high considering it is a lightweight stroller. As a reminder, you may notice your child’s height interferes with them before their weight does. Unfortunately, you may discover your child outgrows the Bugaboo Ant before you’d like them to.
Typically, kids start using strollers less and less around 3 years old. It’s always nice to have one around if you are going to be walking long distances. Your kiddo can hop in and out when they need a break. However, you do want to make sure you are encouraging your child to get up and run around.
Wrap Up
The Bugaboo Ant has a lot going for it if you can get past the hefty price tag, of course. I, personally, feel the stroller is perfect for people who travel often and want a lightweight stroller that is easy to push around an airport or train station. The stroller is great for everyday use as well. The lightweight feature makes it easy to get around and transport in and out of your car.
While the folding process is not my favorite, it’s not a deal-breaker for me. The Bugaboo Ant has too much going for it to base an opinion on that alone. I highly recommend the Bugaboo Ant if you are looking for a lightweight stroller offering compact features ideal for traveling and you don’t mind the higher price tag.
