9 Signs That You re An Expert Double Travel Stroller Expert
Choosing a Double Travel Stroller
A double stroller is a godsend for parents who have multiple young children. Choose a lightweight stroller that can be folded up small enough to fit into the trunk of your vehicle or in an overhead bin.
Make sure you check the manufacturer's weight recommendations, and try to avoid exceeding the recommended weights to avoid fatigue of the frame. Other must-haves are adjustable canopies as well as a seating option that is flexible for children of different age groups, and plenty of storage.
Ease of Use
Double strollers get a bad rap because they're heavy and difficult to put together However, this class of strollers has advanced from the behemoth vintage 1980s versions. The best double strollers have sleek designs and can be customized to meet your family's specific needs, whether it's a tandem (single to double stroller seating in a file) or a side-by-side arrangement. They're also light enough to travel and can fit into the trunks of cars and onto most airplanes and can be checked for gate access just like any other luggage.
It's important to have a stroller that's easy to maneuver across different surfaces and fits into tight spaces, especially for families who live in urban areas where space is scarce and public transportation is the primary mode of transport. The lightweight and agile double strollers we test can weave through busy sidewalks and tight subway gates, making them indispensable for the bustling city.
We look at a range of factors when evaluating the stroller's ease of use, including how easy it is to fold and set up, and if it can be adjusted to accommodate different family members of varying heights. We also look for a large storage bin, reclining seats that have easy adjustment and access, and a maximum weight limit of the canopy and seat. The Zoe Twin+ earned top scores in this category due to its adequate storage bin as well as its huge canopy and quick fold.
If you're looking for a light stroller that will easily fit into trunks of cars that are small the Mountain Buggy Nano Duo is a great option. It's among the lightweight double strollers we've ever tested. It also folds into an easy-to-carry, compact package. It's the smallest double umbrella stroller we've ever tried and is a great choice for travel. Some airlines will even permit you to gate-check this stroller.
Parents of twins need a side-by-side stroller that supports two infant car seats is essential. Some double strollers such as the Graco DuoGlider Elite allow you to use two infant car seats simultaneously to save time and energy. You may also want to consider a tandem stroller that lets you to keep your children in earshot and in sight.
Comfort
A comfortable, high-quality, padded seat is crucial to ensure your children's comfort during strolls. Find one that has an adjustable backrest as well as a reclining feature, and a large seat that allows children to stretch out or sit easily. Consider a stroller that has a spacious undercarriage to accommodate bags of storage or other items without affecting the positioning of the seats.
The weight and size of a double travel stroller can also impact its performance. Look for a model with solid suspension and wheels that glides easily over rough surfaces. A good double stroller can also turn in tight spaces, maneuver through narrow hallways and crowded subway gates and sidewalks. If you plan on using a double stroller often, choose one that folds in just a couple of steps and fits into your trunk or in a compact car.
Double strollers are frequently used by parents traveling with small children, especially in urban areas that are heavily populous and where public transportation is prevalent. This scenario is ideal for a slimmer, modular double-stroller such as the CYBEX Gazelle, which allows parents to mix and blend seat units, cots and car seats to accommodate changing requirements.
Another option is a double umbrella stroller which is typically lighter and smaller than traditional models. They are ideal for travel, as they can be folded quickly and easily. They can also be gate checked on airplanes and usually meet Disney stroller size requirements. Some also offer plenty of onboard storage for toys, snacks, and other gear.
A side-by-side double stroller is best for parents with twins, or siblings who are similar in age. This type of double stroller usually less expensive than a modular model, and the seats usually have ample recline, legroom, and canopies that provide ample coverage. The only downside to side-by-side strollers is that it could be more difficult to maneuver through narrow hallways or crowded sidewalks and the larger frame could make it harder to get through certain doors.
Folding is easy
The ability to fold is the primary consideration when selecting a double travel pram. This is especially important if you need to fold your stroller in small spaces or on streets with cars and pedestrians nearby. The most efficient strollers fold in a few simple steps that are intuitive and simple. They fold quickly and without any twitches that could lead to body parts hitting each other or sliding. The Babyzen YOYO2 Connect Double and the Evenflo Pivot Xplore Wagon are some of our favorite double single pushchair travel strollers that fold quickly and compactly.
It's important to consider the duration you'll be using a double stroller. If you're planning on keeping your kids in the same seat until they reach a minimum the age of preschool, then you may want to look into a side-by-side model that can be adapted to include bassinets or infant car seats. Convertible double strollers are a good option if you believe your kids will be ready for separate seats prior to that point.
The top double strollers that we have reviewed have a recline that is nearly flat that makes it easy for your kids to nap or have a snack break while on the move. However, some strollers come with a different recline for each seat (the front seat of the UPPAbaby Vista Double v2 Double is almost flat, while the second seat remains upright). This can result in children fighting over which seat to sit in.
It is also important to think about the size of your car's trunk, as some double travel strollers are a bit bulky and won't fit in the back of smaller vehicles. We recommend selecting a double stroller that can fit comfortably in your trunk and can be easily folded and stored when not in use. We also recommend double strollers that feature smaller footprints with a light weight and a simple design, such as the ZOE twin buggy from birth+. It's the most compact pushchairs double stroller we've test, and with 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 Disney-sized approved!
Storage
The behemoth vintage strollers of the 1980s might have given double strollers a bad name however they have come a long ways. Modern, sleek, modular strollers are available in tandem or side-by-side formats. They can be customized to accommodate children from birth to kindergarten. Some models can also accommodate infant car seats, and some even have an adjustable riding board. While you may need to spend more upfront, the investment can pay off in versatility and resale value.
When shopping for a double stroller, you should take into consideration the weight limit of each seat as well as the storage space available, and whether or not the seats recline. A recline that is deep allows for easy naps while on the move, and a canopy with UV protection will help keep your child from overheating. Double strollers can also feature parent-facing cupholders and dual snack trays for on-the-go convenience.
Another aspect to be aware of is the weight of the stroller and how much it weighs, as this can affect the ability of you to carry it around and maneuver it through tight areas. Some of the most lightweight strollers, such as the Kolcraft Cloud Plus weigh less than 23 pounds and can hold children up to 40 pounds. It's lighter than a single stroller and is easy to carry through airports and into cars.
If you are on a tight budget, consider checking out double strollers on websites such as Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist. These websites often have gently used double strollers at affordable prices. Find a double stroller in good shape and free of rust or loose screws. Once you've got a used double stroller, make sure you perform a thorough inspection, including checking the axles of the wheels for damage prior to using it with your kids. Some cities rent strollers, however this option is not available everywhere. It can also be expensive if you plan to use the stroller regularly.