Joolz Aer+ VS Bugaboo Butterfly – Best Luxury Travel Strollers

Both the Joolz Aer+ and Bugaboo Butterfly are high-end, luxury travel strollers. While Joolz and Bugaboo as brands have occupied a similar space in the pram market, this is the first time they’ve had prams that are so similar.

These two compact strollers have more in common than they have differences, so it’s probably going to be a bit of a challenge for parents to choose between them. But before I go through why you might choose one over the other, I’ll go over what features they share:

• Smooth one-handed fold (and open)
• Auto-engage fold lock
• Ultra-compact and lightweight
• Four wheel suspension
• Extendable canopy
• 5 point harness easy individual buckles
• Plush fabrics and luxury finishes

Also, as you can see below, most of the dimensions are very similar. The key thing to note comparing the stats and dimensions in detail is the Bugaboo Butterfly is a little heavier than the Joolz Aer+, although it does offer a higher basket capacity. 

The Joolz Aer+ seat is a bit wider but the Bugaboo Butterfly seat is a little bit taller. 

So there’s really not much in between these two great travel strollers. 

Why Choose the Joolz Aer+?

When they’re so similar, it is going to be tricky to choose between them. The key reasons to choose the Joolz Aer+ over the Bugaboo Butterfly is it offers a somewhat easier fold – if you compare the Bugaboo Butterfly fold video to your Joolz Aer+ while the mechanism is very similar the Aer+ remains standing so you don’t have to bend as far to fold.

The Joolz Aer+ has the option of the incredibly clever foldable carrycot which means you can use the Joolz Aer+ from birth as your everyday stroller (suitable for inner city living).

Another feature that might interest parents is Joolz focus on sustainability and the Joolz Aer+ fabrics are made from recycled materials. 

Additionally, Joolz now offers a 10 Year transferable warranty. Meaning the warranty goes with the stroller (much like the warranty on a car) rather than only applying to the original owner.

Why Choose a Bugaboo Butterfly?

I think the biggest reason to go for a Bugaboo Butterfly over a Joolz Aer+ would be if you’re already in the Bugaboo “family” because many of the accessories for your full-sized Bugaboo will fit the Bugaboo Butterfly – for example, the cup holder, organiser, footmuff, seat liner, phone holder, parasol and the nappy bag. As well as the Bugaboo Turtle capsule (with Butterfly adapters sold separately). Although the Bugaboo Butterfly isn’t compatible with the regular Bugaboo Comfort Board and has its own separate board. (This is to be expected –  the Joolz Aer+ also has its own board separate to the rest of the Joolz range)

Other features the Bugaboo Butterfly has over the Joolz Aer+ is the bigger and more easily accessible basket and also the built-in leg rest. Although the Joolz Aer+ does have the option to purchase a leg rest separately. 

In conclusion

I almost always say this with my comparison reviews, and I don’t know if it helps or makes it harder, but there’s no wrong choice here. They are both great strollers! You will love whichever one you choose. 

If you already own a Bugaboo pram the choice is easy – especially if you already have the accessories and are deeply in the Bugaboo “ecosystem” (kind of like sticking with apple devices).

If you’re planning to travel by plane the Joolz Aer+ might be the better option because of the 1kg weight difference and also the carry bag is included (Bugaboo Butterfly bag is sold separately).

Further reading:

• Joolz Aer+ vs Joolz Aer
• Joolz Aer vs Babyzen Yoyo
• Joolz Aer+ vs Baby Jogger city tour 2
• Best Travel Strollers in 2023