Choosing a Double Travel Stroller
A double stroller can be an essential item when you have multiple kids. Choose a lightweight stroller that can fold down small enough to fit into the trunk of your car or in an airplane overhead bin.
Make sure you check the manufacturer's weight guidelines, and avoid exceeding them to avoid frame fatigue. Other must-haves include adjustable canopies, versatile seating for children of different ages and plenty of storage.
Simple to use
Double strollers have a bad rap for being heavy and difficult to put together, but this category of strollers has come a long way from the behemoth vintage 1980s versions. The top double strollers have modern designs and can be adapted to meet your family's particular needs, whether it's a tandem (single seat in the file) or a side-byside configuration. They're also light enough to travel and to fit in the trunks of cars and on planes and can be gate-checked like any other luggage.
It's important to have a stroller easy to maneuver across different surfaces and fit into tight spaces, particularly for families who live in urban zones where space is limited and public transport is the primary mode of transport. The lightweight and agile double strollers that we test can navigate crowded sidewalks and tight subway gates, making them indispensable for city life.
We take into consideration a variety of aspects when evaluating a stroller for ease of use, including the ease with which it can be set up and fold and also if it can be adjusted to accommodate different family members of different heights. We also look for a spacious storage bin and reclined seats that are easy to access and adjust, as well as the highest weight limit for the canopy and seat. The Zoe Twin+ was rated the highest in this category due to its spacious canopy with ample storage space and its quick fold.
The Mountain Buggy Nano Duo stroller is a great option to consider if you're seeking a light stroller that is able to fit into small trunks of cars. It's one the lightest double strollers that we've ever tested. It also folds into an easy-to-carry, compact package. It's also the smallest double umbrella stroller we've tested which makes it an excellent option for traveling and can even be gate-checked with some airlines.
A car seat with a side-by-side that can hold two infants is essential for parents of twins. Some double strollers, such as the Graco DuoGlider Elite allow you to use two infant car seats simultaneously which can save time and energy. You might also consider a tandem stroller, which allows you to keep both kids in your sight and earshot.
Comfort
If you want to make sure your children are comfortable during walks, a good quality cushioned seat is vital. You should choose a stroller that has a reclining backrest, adjustable backrest and a wide seat so that your child can sit up or stretch out. Consider a stroller with an ample undercarriage that can accommodate bags for storage or other things without affecting the placement of the seats.
The weight and size of a double stroller can also affect its performance. Choose a model that has solid suspension and wheels that can easily glide over rough surfaces. A quality double stroller will also be maneuvered in tight spaces, and navigate narrow corridors and busy sidewalks and subway gates. If you plan to use a double stroller regularly you should choose a model with a quick one or two-step fold that will be tucked away in a trunk or compact car.
Parents traveling with young children usually depend on a double stroller to get them around, especially in densely populated urban areas where space is at the limit and public transportation is the norm. This situation is best served by a streamlined double stroller that is modular, such as the CYBEX Gazelle, which allows parents to mix and combine seats, cots and car seats to meet changing requirements.
A double umbrella stroller is an alternative option. They are typically smaller and lighter than traditional strollers. They are generally ideal for travel, since they fold easily and quickly, can be gate checked on airplanes, and typically meet Disney's stroller size requirements. Many of them have ample storage space for snacks, toys and other equipment.
A double stroller that is side-by-side is ideal 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 come with plenty of recline, legroom, and canopy options that offer ample coverage. The only drawback to 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 longer frame can make it more difficult to navigate through some doors.
Folding is easy
cheap double pushchair folding ease is the primary consideration when choosing a double travel pram. This is particularly crucial if you have to fold your stroller down a crowded sidewalk or in confined spaces. The best strollers have an intuitive, straightforward folding process that requires only just a few steps. They fold quickly and without any awkwardness which could lead to body parts slamming against each other or sliding. The Babyzen YOYO2 Connect Double and the Evenflo PivotXplore Wagon are some of our favorite double strollers that fold easily and compactly.
It is crucial to consider the duration of time you'll be using a double stroller. If you're planning on keeping your kids in the same seat until they reach preschool age, then you may want to consider an option that is side-by-side with the ability to add bassinets for infants or car seats. Convertible double strollers are an excellent option if you're thinking that your kids are ready to move into separate seats before that time.
A few of the top double strollers we've reviewed have a recline that is nearly flat, which makes it comfortable for your children to sleep or take a snack break while on the move. However, some products have a different recline for each seat (the front seat of the UPPAbaby Vista Double v2 Double goes almost flat, while the second seat remains nearly upright). This type of difference in recline can cause children to fight over which seat they want to sit in.
It is also important to consider the size of your car's trunk, as some double strollers are a bit bulky and won't fit in the back of cars with smaller trunks. We recommend choosing a double stroller that can fit comfortably in your trunk and can be easily folded and stored away when not in use. We also like double strollers that feature tiny, light footprints with a low weight and a simple design, like the ZOE Twin+. It's the smallest double stroller we tested, and at just over 19 lbs, it's one of the lightest strollers that can still be able to meet airline gate-check luggage weight limits. It's also Disney-sized-approved!
Storage
Double strollers have probably earned negative reviews from the massive 1980s models many elder millennials remember but they've come quite a long way. Modern, sleek, modular strollers are available in tandem or side-by-side designs. They can be customized to accommodate children from birth to kindergarten. Some models can also accommodate infant car seats and some include an attached riding board. You may have to spend more initially, but the investment will pay off with flexibility and resales.
When shopping for a double stroller, be aware of the weight limit for each seat and the storage space available and whether or not the seats recline. A deep recline is great for naps while on the go, and a canopy that provides UV protection keeps kids from getting too hot in the sun. Some double strollers offer parents-facing cupholders as well as dual snack tray for on-the-go convenience.
Another factor to take into consideration is how much the stroller weighs in order to determine your ability to move it around and maneuver it into tight spaces. Some of the best strollers that are light, such as the Kolcraft Cloud Plus weigh less than 23 pounds and carry children up to 40 pounds. It's lighter than a single stroller, and is easy to transport through airports and into cars.
If you are on the tightest budget, think about exploring double strollers available on sites like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist. These websites often have gently used double strollers at bargain prices. Find a double stroller that is in good condition and free of rust or loose screws. Before you purchase a secondhand double stroller with your children make sure you do a thorough inspection and inspect the wheel axles. Some cities rent strollers, but this option isn't available everywhere. It could be expensive if plan to use the stroller regularly.