Choosing a Double Travel Stroller
A double stroller is an essential item when you have multiple kids. Look for one that's lightweight and folds small enough to fit in the trunk of your car or an airplane overhead bin.
Check the manufacturer's seat weight guidelines and be sure to not exceed them to prevent frame fatigue. Other must-haves include adjustable canopies, versatile seating for children of different age groups, and plenty of storage.
Easy of Use
Double strollers get an undeserved reputation for being heavy and difficult to assemble however, this type of strollers has advanced from the massive 1980s versions. The best double strollers have modern designs and can be adapted to meet your family's specific requirements, whether it's a tandem (single seat in the file) or a side-by-side arrangement. They're also light enough for travel and can fit into the trunks of cars as well as onto planes, where they can be checked for gate access just like any other luggage.
It's important to have a stroller that's easily maneuverable over various surfaces and can fit into tight spaces, particularly for families who live in urban areas where space is scarce and public transport is the main mode of transportation. The light and agile double strollers that we test can navigate the crowded sidewalks and narrow subway gates, making them essential for city life.
We look at a range of factors when we evaluate the stroller's convenience, such as the ease with which it can be fold and set up and fold, as well as if it is able to be adjusted to accommodate different family members of varying heights. We also look for a large storage bin and reclined seats that are easy to access and adjust as well as a high maximum weight limit for the seat and canopy. The Zoe Twin+ was rated top in this category due to its large canopy, ample storage bin and its quick fold.
The Mountain Buggy Nano Duo stroller is a great choice to consider if you're looking for a lightweight option that can easily fit in small car trunks. It's among the lightest double strollers we've tested, and folds into an extremely compact size that is easier to transport up and down stairs than other models. It's also the smallest double umbrella stroller we've tested which makes it a great option for traveling and can even be gate-checked with some airlines.
A car seat that can hold two infants is crucial for parents of twins. Some double strollers, such as the Graco DuoGlider Elite, allow you to use both infant car seats at once this saves time and energy by eliminating the need for switching out children. It is also possible to look into a tandem stroller which will allow you to keep both kids in the same area and within earshot.
Comfort
If you want to make sure your children are comfortable on walks, a good quality cushioned seat is essential. Choose a model with an adjustable backrest as well as a recline feature, and a wide seating area that allows kids to stretch out or sit up easily. Consider a stroller that has an expansive undercarriage that can hold storage bags or other items without interfering in the position of the seats.
The weight and size can also influence the performance of the double travel jogger. Make sure you choose a model with solid wheels and suspension that can effortlessly glide over rough surfaces. A quality double stroller will also turn in tight spaces, and navigate narrow hallways, crowded subway gates and sidewalks. If you intend to utilize a double stroller often, opt for an option with a quick, one or two-step fold, which can be tucked away in a trunk or compact car.
Parents who travel with young children typically depend on a double stroller for getting them around, particularly in densely populated urban areas where space is a premium and public transportation is a common sight. This scenario is ideal for a slimmer and modular double stroller like the CYBEX Gazelle that allows parents to mix and match seat units, cots and car seats to suit changing requirements.
Another option is a double umbrella stroller that tends to be lighter and smaller than standard models. They are ideal for travel as they can be folded up quickly and easily. They can also be gate checked on airplanes and usually meet Disney stroller size requirements. Some of them offer plenty of storage space for toys, snacks and other gear.
A double stroller that is side-by-side is best for parents who have twins, or siblings that are similar in age. This type of double stroller is usually less expensive than a modular model, and the seats typically offer plenty of legroom, recline options, and canopies that provide plenty of coverage. The only disadvantage of a stroller that is side-by-side is that it can be harder to maneuver in narrow spaces or on sidewalks that are crowded, and the wider frame can make it more difficult to pass through some doorways.
Folding Ease
When you are choosing a double travel stroller, the most important factor is ease of folding. This is particularly important if you need to fold your stroller into small spaces or on sidewalks with cars and other people near. The most efficient strollers fold in the simplest of steps that are easy and straightforward. They fold quickly and without any awkwardness that could lead to body parts slamming against each one another or sliding. The Babyzen YOYO2 Connect Double and the Evenflo PivotXplore Wagon are some of our favorite double strollers that fold quickly and compactly.
It is important to think about the length of time you will be using a double stroller. If you're planning to keep your children in the same place until they reach the age of preschool, then you may want to look into a side-by-side model with the option of adding bassinets for infants or car seats. Convertible double strollers are a great option if you think your children will be ready for separate seats prior to that point.
The top double strollers that we have reviewed come with a flat recline which makes it a comfortable for your kids to nap or take a break for a snack while out and about. Some products offer an alternative recline for each seat. For instance, the front seat of the UPPAbaby Double v2 Double is nearly flat, while the second seat is nearly upright. This can result in children fighting over which seat to take a seat in.
You'll need to consider the dimensions of your trunk vehicle, as double travel strollers can be bulky and will not fit in the backs of smaller vehicles. This is why we recommend choosing a double stroller that can fit comfortably in your trunk and is easily folded and stored away when not in use. We also like double strollers that feature smaller footprints with a light weight and simple design, like the ZOE Twin+. It's the smallest double stroller we test. With just 19 pounds, it's among the lightest strollers to still meet airline gate check baggage weight limits. It's Disney-size-approved!
Storage
The huge vintage strollers of the 1980s may have caused double strollers to get a bad name however they've progressed a lot. Modern, sleek, modular strollers are available in tandem or side-byside designs. They can be adapted to accommodate children from birth until kindergarten. Some models also accommodate infant car seats as well as an adjustable riding board. It is possible to pay more initially, but the investment will pay off through the flexibility and resale.
When you are looking for a double stroller, be aware of the weight limit for each seat, the storage space available, and whether or not the seats recline. A recline that is deep allows for easy naps on the move and a canopy with UV protection will keep your child from overheating. Some double strollers offer parent-facing cupholders and dual snack trays for on-the-go convenience.
Another thing to consider is the weight of the stroller and how much it weighs, as this can affect your ability to lug it around and maneuver it through tight places. Some of the best lightweight double strollers, like the Kolcraft Cloud Plus, weigh less than 23 lbs and can carry children up to 40 pounds. It's lighter than a single stroller and easy to carry through airports and in cars.
If you are on the tightest budget, think about looking at double strollers on sites like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist. These sites often offer gently used double strollers at low prices. cheap double buggy in good condition are free of rust and loose screws. Before you purchase a secondhand double-stroller with your children, perform a thorough check and inspect the wheel axles. You can also find strollers to rent in some cities, but this option isn't available everywhere and can be pricey in the event that you intend to use the stroller regularly.