Choosing a Double Travel Stroller
A double stroller is a lifesaver if you have a lot of children. Choose a stroller with a light weight that can fold down compact enough to fit in the trunk of your car or in an overhead bin.
Review the manufacturer’s seat weight guidelines, and avoid exceeding them to prevent frame fatigue. Other essentials include adjustable canopy, versatile seating for children of all age groups, and plenty of storage.
Easy of Use
Double strollers are often criticized for being heavy and difficult to put together. However, they have improved a lot since the 1980s. The best double strollers feature a sleek design and can be customized to meet your family’s unique needs, 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 and onto most airplanes which allows them to 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 fit into tight spaces, particularly for families who live in urban zones where space is limited and public transportation is the primary mode of transport. The light and agile double strollers that we test can navigate crowded sidewalks and tight subway gates, making them indispensable 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 set up and fold and also if it can be adjusted to accommodate family members of different heights. We also look for an ample storage bin, reclining seats with easy adjustment and access, and a maximum weight limit of the canopy and seat. The Zoe Twin+ was rated highest in this category due to its large canopy as well as its ample storage bin and its quick fold.
The Mountain Buggy Nano Duo stroller is a great option when you’re seeking a light stroller that fits easily into tiny car trunks. It’s one of the tiniest double strollers we’ve tested, and it folds into an extremely compact size that is easy to carry up and down stairs than many 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 with a side-by-side that can fit 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, saving time and energy. You might also want to think about a tandem stroller that allows you to keep your children in earshot and within sight.
Comfort
If you want to ensure your children are comfortable on strolls, a high-quality cushioned seat is vital. It is recommended to choose an infant stroller with a recline backrest, adjustable backrest and a spacious seat so that your child can sit up or stretch out. For added comfort, consider a stroller that has a spacious undercarriage that can hold bags of storage and other things without interfering with the seats’ position.
The weight and size could also influence the performance of a double travel jogger. Select a model with sturdy wheels and suspension to glide easily over rough surfaces. A good double stroller can also turn in tight spaces, maneuver through narrow corridors and busy sidewalks and subway gates. If you intend to use a double stroller frequently you should choose a model that folds quickly in one or two steps and can fit into your trunk or in a compact vehicle.
Double strollers are often used by parents who travel with children who are small, particularly in urban areas that are urbanized and where public transportation is prevalent. This scenario is best served by a streamlined and modular double stroller like the CYBEX Gazelle, which allows parents to mix and match seats, cots and car seats to suit changing requirements.
Another alternative is a double umbrella stroller, which is typically smaller and lighter than traditional models. These are great for traveling as they can be folded quickly and easily. They can also be gate checked on airplanes and often comply with Disney stroller size requirements. Some offer ample onboard storage space for toys, snacks and other gear.
A side-by-side double stroller is a great option for parents who have twins, or siblings who are close in age. This type of double-stroller is usually cheaper than one with a modular frame. The seats are spacious and have plenty of legroom, reclining options, and canopy covers that provide plenty of coverage. The only drawback to side-by-side strollers is that it could be more difficult to maneuver through narrow spaces or on sidewalks that are crowded and the longer frame could make it harder to get through certain doors.
Folding is easy
The ability to fold is the most important consideration when selecting a double-travel pram. This is particularly important when you have to fold your stroller in small spaces or on streets with cars and pedestrians near. The best strollers have an easy, simple folding operation with just a few steps. They fold easily and without any awkwardness that could lead to body parts slamming against each one another or sliding. The Babyzen YOYO2 Connect double stroller with infant car seat and the Evenflo PivotXplore Wagon are some of our favorite double travel strollers that fold easily and compactly.
It is important to think about the duration of time you’ll be using a double travel stroller. If you intend to keep your children in the same seats for at least the preschool years, you may want to look into a side-by-side model that allows you to add infant car seat or bassinets. Convertible double strollers are a great option if you’re thinking that your children are ready to move into separate seats prior to that point.
The top double strollers in our reviews offer a near-flat recline which makes it a comfortable for your kids to nap or have a snack break while on the move. Certain strollers offer the option of a different recline for each seat. For instance, the front seat of the UPPAbaby Double v2 Double is nearly flat, while the second seat is upright. This can lead to kids having a fight over which seat to take a seat in.
You’ll have to consider the dimensions of the trunk of your vehicle, since some double travel strollers can be heavy and won’t fit in the back of smaller automobiles. We suggest that you pick a double stroller that fits easily into your trunk and can be folded up and stored when it is not in use. We also like double strollers with a small double buggy, light footprint with a light weight and a simple design, like the ZOE Twin+. It’s the most compact double stroller we’ve test, and with just over 19 lbs it’s among the lightest strollers that still be able to meet airline gate-check luggage weight limits. It’s Disney-sized approved!
Storage
The behemoth strollers of the 1980s may have given double strollers the wrong impression however they have evolved a great deal. These days, sleek, modular models can be fitted with a variety of customizations, fit kids from birth through kindergarten, and are available in side-byside or tandem (single-file seating) designs. They also have infant car seats and a riding board that can be attached. You may have to spend more initially, but the investment will pay off in the form of flexibility and resales.
A few things to think about when shopping for a double travel stroller include the weight limit per seat, the storage space available and whether the seats have a recline. A recline that is deep is ideal for naps on the go and a canopy that offers UV protection keeps kids from overheating in the sun. Some double strollers have cup holders for parents, as well as dual snack trays to make it easier for parents on the go.
Another aspect to consider is how much the stroller weighs in order to determine the ability of you to carry it around and maneuver it in tight areas. Some of the best lightweight strollers, such as the Kolcraft Cloud Plus weigh less than 23 pounds and hold children up to 40 pounds. It’s lighter than the average single stroller and is easy enough to schlep through airports, through overhead bins, and even into cars.
If you’re on a budget look for used options on sites like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist, which usually have gently used double strollers for sale at low prices. Double strollers in good shape are free of loose screws and rust. Once you’ve got an old double stroller, ensure that you conduct an extensive inspection, which includes inspecting the axles of the wheels for damage, before using it with your children. Some cities rent strollers, however this option isn’t available everywhere. It could also be expensive if you intend to use the stroller often.
