Choosing a Double Travel Stroller
A double stroller is a lifesaver when you have a lot of children. Choose a lightweight twin stroller stroller that can be folded down compact enough to fit in the trunk of your vehicle or in an overhead bin.
Make sure you check the manufacturer's weight recommendations, and be sure to not exceed them to avoid frame fatigue. Other must-haves are adjustable canopies, versatile seating for children of various age groups, and plenty of storage.
Easy of Use
Double strollers are often accused of being heavy and difficult to assemble. However, they have come a long ways since the 1980s. The best double strollers are sleek and support different options for customization to suit your family's needs regardless of whether you're looking to purchase a tandem (single-file seating) or a side-by-side arrangement. They're also light enough for travel and to fit in the trunks of cars and on planes, where they can be checked at the gate just like other luggage.
It is essential to have a stroller that is easy to maneuver over different surfaces and can fit into tight spaces, especially for families who live in urban areas where space is limited and public transportation is the main mode of transportation. The light and agile double strollers that we test can navigate busy sidewalks and tight subway gates, making them essential for the bustling city.
We evaluate a stroller's ease of use by looking at a number of aspects, including how quick and easy the folding and setup process are, and whether it is adjustable for different family members with varying heights. We also look for a large storage bin, reclining seats with easy access and adjustment, and the weight limit of the seat and canopy. The Zoe twin pushchair+ was rated highest in this category due to its huge canopy with ample storage space and its quick fold.
The Mountain Buggy Nano Duo stroller is a great choice to consider if you're looking for a lightweight double pushchair stroller that is able to fit into small car trunks. It's one the lightest double strollers that we've tested. It also folds into a compact, easy-to-transport package. It's the smallest double umbrella stroller we've tested which makes it a great option for traveling. Some airlines allow you to gate-check the stroller.
For parents with twins, a side-byside stroller that can support two infant car seats is essential. Some double strollers like the Graco DuoGlider Elite allow you to use two infant car seats at the same time, saving time and energy. It is also possible to think about a tandem stroller that lets you to keep your children in ear and in sight.
Comfort
A well-padded, high-quality and comfortable seat is vital to ensure your child's safety on walks. Look for one with an adjustable backrest and recline feature, and a wide seat that allows children 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 size and weight of a double stroller can affect its performance. Select a model with solid wheels and suspension that can glide easily over rough surfaces. A quality double stroller should also be able to turn in tight spaces, and navigate narrow corridors, crowded subway gates, and sidewalks. If you intend to use a double stroller regularly choose one with a simple one or two-step fold that can fit into the trunk of a car or a compact vehicle.
Parents traveling with small children often rely on a double stroller to get their children around, particularly in urban regions where space is at the limit and public transportation is the norm. This scenario is best served by a streamlined and modular double stroller like the CYBEX Gazelle which allows parents to mix and combine seat units, cots and car seats to meet changing requirements.
A double umbrella stroller is a different option. These are usually lighter and smaller than the standard ones. These are great for traveling as they can be folded up quickly and easily. They can also be gate checked in airplanes and usually are able to meet Disney stroller requirements for size. Some also offer plenty of storage space onboard for snacks, toys, and other equipment.
A side-by-side double stroller is best for parents with twins, or siblings who are close in age. This type of double-stroller is typically cheaper than one with a modular frame. Its seats have plenty of recline options, legroom and canopy covers that offer ample coverage. The only disadvantage of side-by-side strollers is that it could be harder to maneuver in narrow spaces or on sidewalks that are crowded, and the wider frame could make it harder to pass through some doorways.
Ease of Folding
When you are choosing a double travel stroller, the most important factor is the ease of folding. This is particularly crucial in the event that you have to fold your stroller down a crowded sidewalk or in confined spaces. The best strollers feature an intuitive, simple folding procedure that takes only just a few steps. They fold without any awkward issues that can result in slamming parts of the body or sliding. The Babyzen YOYO2 Connect Double and the Evenflo Pivot Xplore Wagon are among our top double strollers that fold easily and compactly.
It is crucial to consider the duration you'll be using a double travel stroller. If you are planning to keep your children in the same car seats for at least the time of their preschool years, you might want to look into the side-by-side design which allows you to add an infant car seat or bassinets. Convertible double strollers are a good option if you think your children will be ready for separate seats before that time.
The top double strollers in our reviews offer a near-flat recline, which makes it comfortable for your kids to lie down or have a snack break while on the go. However, some strollers come with an individual recline for each seat (the front seat on the UPPAbaby Vista Double v2 Double reclines almost to the floor, while the second seat remains almost upright). This could result in kids fighting over which seat they should take a seat in.
You'll also need to consider the size of your car's trunk, since some double strollers can be quite bulky and will not fit in the back of smaller vehicles. We suggest that you pick a double to single buggy stroller that fits easily into your trunk and is able to be folded and put away when not in use. We also recommend double strollers that have a small, light footprint with a low weight and simple design, like the ZOE pushchair twin+. It's the lowest-weight double stroller that we test, and with just over 19 pounds, it's one of the Lightest double stroller strollers and can still be used to meet the airline gate-check baggage weight limits. It's Disney-sized approved!
Stores
The massive vintage strollers of the 1980s might have caused double strollers to get a bad name however they have evolved a great deal. Modern, sleek, and modular strollers are available in tandem or side-byside formats. They can be customized to accommodate children from birth to kindergarten. Some models can also accommodate infant car seats and some have an attachable ridingboard. While you might need to invest more up front however, the investment can pay off in versatility and the potential for resales.
A few things to think about when shopping for a double travel stroller are the weight limit per seat, the storage space available and whether the seats have a recline. A recline that is deep can allow for easy naps on the move, and a canopy with UV protection will prevent your child from overheating. Some double strollers come with cup holders for parents, as well as dual snack trays to make it easier on the go.
The weight of the stroller is also important, since it will affect the ability of you to maneuver it in tight places. Some of the most strollers that are light, such as the Kolcraft Cloud Plus weigh less than 23 pounds, and can accommodate children as heavy as 40 pounds. It's lighter than the standard single stroller, and is easy enough to schlep through airports, through 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, where you can often find gently used double strollers on sale at low prices. Double strollers in good shape are free of rust and loose screws. Once you've got an old double stroller, be sure to perform an extensive inspection, which includes looking over the wheel axles for damage before using it with your kids. Some cities rent strollers, but this isn't the case everywhere. It can also be expensive if you plan on using the stroller regularly.