Pink Stroller

While Lily's big pushchair is perfect for most outings there are times when it has proved to be a pretty cumbersome addition to a trip out, taking up valuable boot space. Many a time we found ourselves scuppered when we did a bit of unexpected shopping because it was such a squeeze to fit it in. It can also be a bit finicky taking the pushchair in and out of the house when I am on my own.

Don't get my wrong, I am by no means dissing our Gracco Excursion. Far from it. I love the fact it's easy to manoeuvre, that it has a lovely big shopping basket, that it has withstood all manner of weather and terrains! It's just sometimes when I simply need to pop out for a pint of milk with Lily I don't really need all of those great features.

The search began for a basic - and not too expensive - little stroller and I was in luck as our decision to buy one coincided with the local Asda store having a special baby and toddler event where they were selling, amongst other things, exactly what I was after.

This pink stroller was an absolute bargain - under £20! It's easy to fold away, has lockable wheels at the front - if swivel ones aren't your cup of tea (which for me they aren't!) and is extremely lightweight. It's proved great for getting out and about for the odd stroll during the summer months.

There are, of course, certain drawbacks to a stroller such as this. The obvious lack of any storage for one. Not a problem if you literally are just going for a stroll but not so good if you are planning on doing any shopping. The pushchair is so light that I would never risk hanging any bags off the handles (and that includes my changing bag which I have to carry as an oversized handbag if using the stroller!). The other major drawback is that the stroller offers no protection if we should get caught in a sudden downpour. There's no hood and no raincover (I have looked into buying one for it but have thus far not found any suitable for this particular style of chair).

I imagine that unlike my big pushchair this stroller could easily get damaged. The fabric used for the seating for instance, while capable of holding the weight of my daughter, looks like it could snag easily. And the wheels don't look to be the most hard wearing in the world. But hey, I guess you get what you pay for in some instances and at the end of the day I shall only be using this from time to time. I am sure that if we take care of it, the stroller will withstand occasional use and last a good couple of years. That can't be bad for a £20 outlay can it?!