So , You've Bought Double Travel Stroller ... Now What?
Choosing a Double Travel Stroller
A double stroller is a godsend for parents who have multiple young children. Look for one that's lightweight and folds down small enough to fit in the trunk of your car or in an overhead bin for airplanes.
Check the manufacturer's seat weight recommendations, and be sure to not exceed the recommended weights to avoid fatigue of the frame. Other must-haves include adjustable canopies, versatile seating for children of various age groups, and plenty of storage.
Ease of Use
Double strollers have often criticized for being cumbersome and difficult to assemble however, this type of strollers has advanced from the massive 1980s versions. The top double strollers have a sleek design and can be customized to meet your family's unique requirements, whether that's a tandem (single seat in the file) or a side-by-side configuration. They're also light enough to travel and can fit into the trunks of cars as well as onto most airplanes, where they can be gate-checked like any other luggage.
A stroller that is easy to maneuver across different terrains and fit into small spaces is important for families who live in urban environments, where space is limited and public transportation is the main mode of getting around. The lightweight and agile double strollers that we test can navigate the crowded sidewalks and narrow subway gates, making them essential for the bustling city.
We look at a range of factors when we evaluate the stroller's ease of use, including how easy it is to fold and set up and also if it can be adjusted to accommodate family members of varying heights. We also look for a large storage bin and reclined seats that are easy to access and adjust and also the highest weight limit for the seat and canopy. The Zoe Twin+ earned top marks in this category thanks to its adequate storage bin with super-sized canopy, as well as a easy folding.
If you're looking to purchase a light stroller that will easily fit into car trunks that are small The Mountain Buggy Nano Duo is an excellent choice. It's one of the tiniest double strollers we've tried, and folds into smaller size, making it easy to carry 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 on some airlines.
A car seat that can fit two infants is crucial for parents of twins. Some double strollers like the Graco DuoGlider Elite allow you to use two infant car seats at the same time which can save time and energy. It is also possible to consider a tandem stroller that will allow you to keep your children in earshot and within sight.
Comfort
If you want to ensure your children are safe during walks, a good quality, padded seat is crucial. Find one that has an adjustable backrest and recline feature as well as a spacious seat area that allows kids to relax or sit up easily. Consider a stroller that has an ample undercarriage that can accommodate bags of storage or other items without affecting the placement of the seats.
The weight and size of a double stroller can affect its performance. Find a model with solid wheels and suspension that glides easily over rough surfaces. A good double stroller can also navigate tight spaces, and navigate narrow corridors and busy sidewalks and subway gates. If you intend to use a double stroller regularly you should choose one with a simple, one- or two-step fold that can fit in the trunk of a car or a compact vehicle.
Double strollers are often used by parents who travel with small children, especially in urban areas that are populated and where public transportation is prevalent. double push chair is best served by a streamlined and modular double stroller like the CYBEX Gazelle, which allows parents to mix and match seat units, cots and car seats to suit changing requirements.
A double umbrella stroller is another option. These are usually lighter and smaller than traditional strollers. These are great for traveling, as they can be folded up quickly and easily. They can also be gate checked in airplanes and often meet Disney stroller size requirements. Many of them have ample storage space for toys, snacks and other items.
People with twins or siblings that are similar age can benefit the most of a side-by-side stroller. This type of double stroller is generally cheaper than a modular model, and the seats usually have ample recline, legroom, and canopy options that offer plenty of coverage. A side-by-side double stroller comes with one disadvantage: it isn't easy to navigate through narrow hallways and busy sidewalks. Its wider frame can also make it difficult to pass through certain doorways.
Folding Ease
The ease of folding is the most important factor to consider when choosing a double travel pram. This is particularly important if you have to fold your stroller down an overcrowded sidewalk or in cramped spaces. The most efficient strollers fold in a few simple steps that are intuitive and straightforward. They fold quickly and without any awkwardness which could lead to body parts hitting each one another or sliding. The Babyzen YOYO2 Connect Double and the Evenflo PivotXplore are some of our favorite double strollers that fold easily and compactly.
When you're looking for a double stroller, it's helpful to think about how long you intend to use it. If you plan to keep your kids in the same place until they reach pre-school age, you might want to think about a side-by-side design that can be adapted to include bassinets or infant car seats. If you think your children will be ready to transition to separate seats prior to the double stroller convertible is worth considering.
The top double strollers that we have reviewed offer a near-flat recline that makes it easy for your kids to lie down or have a snack break while on the go. Certain strollers offer a different recline on each seat. For example the front seat of the UPPAbaby Double v2 Double is almost flat while the second seat is upright. This kind of disparity in recline can cause children to argue over which one they want to sit in.
You'll also need to think about the size of your vehicle's trunk, since some double strollers can be somewhat bulky and don't fit in the back of cars with smaller trunks. We recommend picking a double stroller which fits well in your trunk and is easily folded and stored when not in use. We also prefer double strollers that have tiny footprints, low weight, and a minimalist design. The ZOE Twin+ is one of these. It's the smallest double stroller we tested, and at just over 19 lbs it's among the lightest strollers and can still be used to meet the airline gate-check baggage weight limits--it's Disney-size approved!
Storage
Double strollers may have gotten an unpopular reputation due to the behemoth vintage 1980s versions many elder millennials remember but they've come quite many steps. Nowadays modern, minimalist models can be fitted with a range of modifications, accommodate children from birth to kindergarten, and are available in side-by-side or tandem (single-file seating) models. Some models can also accommodate infant car seats, and some include an adjustable riding board. It is possible to pay more initially but the investment will pay off with flexibility and resales.
When shopping for a double stroller, you should consider the weight limit of each seat, the storage space available, and whether or not the seats recline. A deep recline is great for naps on the move, and a canopy with UV protection keeps kids from overheating in the sun. Some double strollers also offer parent-facing cupholders and dual snack trays for on-the-go convenience.
The weight of the stroller is also crucial, as it will affect your ability to maneuver in tight places. Some of the most lightweight double strollers, such as the Kolcraft Cloud Plus, weigh less than 23 lbs and can carry children up to 40lbs. It's a little lighter than the typical single stroller, and is simple enough to get through airports, in overhead bins, and even into cars.
If you're on a budget consider looking at used options on sites such as Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist, which usually have gently used double strollers on sale at affordable prices. Look for a double stroller that's in good condition, with no signs of rust or loose screws. Before you use a used double stroller with your children conduct a thorough examination for any issues, including checking the wheel axles. Some cities rent strollers, but this option is not available everywhere. It could also be expensive if you intend to use the stroller frequently.