Choosing a Double Travel Stroller
A double stroller is a lifesaver when you have multiple kids. Choose a stroller with a light weight that can be folded 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 the recommended weights to avoid fatigue of the frame. Other must-haves are adjustable canopies, versatile seating for children of various ages and plenty of storage.
Easy of Use
Double strollers are often criticized as being heavy and difficult to put together. However, they have improved a lot since the 1980s. The top double strollers are sleek and support various customization options to suit your family's needs whether you're looking for a tandem (single-file seating) or side-by-side configuration. They're also lightweight enough for travel and can fit into the trunks of cars as well as onto planes and can be checked for gate access just like any other luggage.
A stroller that is easy to maneuver across various terrains and fit into tight spaces is particularly important for families who live in urban areas where space is scarce and public transportation is the main method of travel. The lightweight and agile double strollers that we test can navigate busy sidewalks and tight subway gates, making them essential for the bustling city.
We consider a variety of aspects when evaluating the 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 with different heights. We also look for a spacious storage bin and reclining seats that are simple to access and adjust as well as the highest weight limit for the canopy and seat. The Zoe twin umbrella stroller+ earned top marks in this category thanks to its ample storage bin, super-sized canopies, and easy folding.
The Mountain Buggy Nano Duo stroller is a great choice to consider if you're looking for a lightweight stroller that can easily fit in tiny car trunks. It's among the lightest double strollers that we've ever tested. It folds down into compact, easy-to-transport packages. It's also the tiniest double umbrella stroller we've tried, which makes it a great choice for travel and can even be gate-checked with some airlines.
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 both infant car seats simultaneously which can save time and energy by removing the need to change children. It is also possible to think about a tandem stroller that will allow you to keep both children in your sight and earshot.
Comfort
If you want to ensure your children are comfortable during walks, a comfortable cushioned seat is vital. It is recommended to choose a stroller double that has a reclining backrest, adjustable backrest and a wide seat to allow your child to sit up or stretch out. For extra comfort, think about a stroller with a roomy undercarriage that can hold bags of storage and other things without affecting the seats' position.
The size and weight of a cheap double pushchair stroller can affect its performance. Choose a model that has robust wheels and suspension that allow it to effortlessly glide over rough surfaces. A good double stroller can also navigate tight spaces, maneuver through narrow hallways, crowded subway gates. If you intend to use a double stroller regularly choose a model with a quick one or two-step fold, which can be tucked away 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 heavily populated and where public transportation is common. This situation is ideal for a slimmer double stroller that is modular, such as the CYBEX Gazelle which allows parents to mix and blend seats, cots, and car seats to suit changing requirements.
A double umbrella stroller is an alternative option. These are usually lighter and more compact models than the traditional ones. They are generally ideal for those traveling, as they fold quickly and easily and can be gate checked on airplanes, and often comply with Disney's stroller size specifications. They also have plenty of space onboard for toys, snacks, 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 kind of double stroller is usually less expensive than a modular model, and the seats typically have ample recline, legroom, and canopy options that offer plenty of coverage. The only disadvantage of a stroller that is side-by-side is that it can be harder to maneuver in narrow corridors or in crowded sidewalks and the longer frame could make it harder to get through certain doors.
Folding Ease
When selecting a double-travel stroller the most important aspect is ease of folding. This is particularly important when you have to fold your stroller into tight spaces or on crowded sidewalks with cars and people nearby. The best strollers have an easy, simple folding process that requires only a few steps. They fold without awkward complexities that result in banging parts of the body or sliding. The Babyzen YOYO2 Connect Double and the Evenflo PivotXplore are some of our favorite double strollers that fold quickly and compactly.
When shopping for a double stroller with car seat travel stroller, be sure to take into consideration how long you'll be able to use it for. If you are planning to keep your children in the same car seats for at least the preschool years, you may want to look into a side by side design that allows you to add bassinets for infants or car seats. If you believe your children are ready to move to separate seats before then an double stroller that converts to a convertible is a good option.
Some of the top double-strollers we reviewed offer a flat recline. This makes it simple for your children to lie down or have a snack while they are on the move. Some strollers have distinct reclines for each seat (the front seat on the UPPAbaby Vista Double v2 Double reclines almost to the floor and the second seat remains almost upright). This kind of disparity in recline can cause children to argue over which seat they want to sit in.
It is also important to consider 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. This is why we recommend choosing a double stroller that fits well in your trunk and can be easily folded and stored when not in use. We also recommend double strollers that feature a small, light footprint with a low weight and simple design, such as the ZOE Twin+. It's the most compact double stroller we've test, and with just 19 pounds it's among the lightest strollers and can still be able to meet airline gate-check luggage weight limits--it's Disney-size approved!
Storage
The huge vintage strollers of the 1980s may have caused double strollers to get the wrong impression however, they have progressed a lot. Nowadays sleek, modular models can accommodate a wide range of options for customization, and fit children from birth to kindergarten, and are available in side-by-side or tandem (single-file seating) models. Some models also accommodate infant car seats and a riding board that can be attached. You might have to pay more initially, but the investment will pay off with versatility and resale.
When choosing a double stroller, you should 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 on the move and a canopy that offers UV protection helps keep kiddos from getting too hot in the sun. Some double strollers offer parent-facing cupholders and dual snack tray for on-the-go convenience.
The weight of the stroller is also important, since it will affect your ability to maneuver it in tight places. Some of the top strollers that are lightweight, like the Kolcraft Cloud Plus weigh less than 23 pounds and can carry children up to 40 pounds. It's lighter than a single stroller and is easy to transport through airports and in cars.
If you're on an extremely tight budget, you might consider checking out double strollers on websites such as Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist. These websites often have gently used double strollers for sale at bargain prices. Double strollers in good condition are free of rust and loose screws. If you've purchased a used double stroller, make sure you perform a thorough inspection, including looking over the axles of the wheels for damage, before using it with your kids. Some cities rent strollers, but this isn't the case everywhere. It could be expensive if plan to use the stroller regularly.