Choosing a Double Travel Stroller
A double stroller can be a lifesaver for busy parents with multiple young children. Choose one that's light and folds down small enough to fit into the trunk of your car or an overhead bin of an airplane.
Make sure you check the manufacturer's weight guidelines, and 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.
Easy of Use
Double strollers are often criticized for being heavy and difficult to assemble. However, they have improved a lot since the 1980s. The best double strollers have a sleek design and can be adapted to meet your family's particular needs, whether it's a tandem (single to double pushchair file seating) 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, where they can be gate-checked like any other luggage.
A stroller that can navigate 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 primary method of travel. The lightweight and agile double strollers that we tested are able to maneuver through crowded streets and tight subway gates. They are essential for city life.
We consider a variety of factors when evaluating a stroller for ease of use, including the ease with which it can be set up and fold, and if it can be adjusted to accommodate different family members of varying heights. We also look for an ample storage bin, reclining seats that have easy access and adjustment, and a maximum weight limit of the canopy and seat. The Zoe twin pushchair from birth+ earned top marks in this category due to its adequate storage bin with super-sized canopy, as well as a quick fold.
The Mountain Buggy Nano Duo stroller is a great option if you are seeking a light stroller that fits easily into tiny car trunks. It's one of the most light double strollers we've tested. It also folds into compact, easy-to-transport packages. It's also the tiniest double umbrella stroller we've tried, which makes it an excellent option for travel. It can even be gate-checked with some airlines.
A car seat that can hold two infants is crucial for parents of twins. Some double strollers, such as the Graco DuoGlider Elite allow you to use two infant car seats at the same time which can save time and energy. You might also look into a tandem stroller that will allow you to keep both children in the same area and within in earshot.
Comfort
If you want to ensure your children are comfortable on walks, a comfortable cushioned seat is essential. You should choose a stroller with a reclining backrest, a backrest that can be adjusted, and a large seat area so that your child can sit up or stretch out. Consider a stroller that has an expansive undercarriage that can hold storage bags or other items without affecting the placement of the seats.
The weight and size can also influence the performance of a double travel jogger's performance. Find a model with sturdy wheels and suspension that can easily glide over rough surfaces. A well-constructed double stroller will also be able to turn in tight spaces and navigate narrow hallways, busy sidewalks, and subway gates. If you plan to use a double stroller regularly choose a model with a quick one or two-step fold that can be tucked away in the trunk of a car or a compact vehicle.
Double strollers are frequently used by parents who travel with children who are small, particularly in urban areas that are populous and where public transportation is common. A compact modular double stroller such as the CYBEX Gazelle S is a great choice for this scenario, as it allows parents to mix and match seat units including cot attachments, cots, and car seats to suit changing family needs and needs, such as when babies outgrow their car seats for infants.
A double umbrella stroller is an alternative option. They tend to be smaller and lighter than the standard ones. These are typically great for travelers, as they fold quickly and easily and are gate-checked on airplanes, and typically meet the Disney stroller size requirements. Many of them have ample storage space for toys, snacks and other equipment.
A double stroller that is side-by-side is ideal for parents with twins, or siblings who are close in age. This type of double stroller generally cheaper than a modular model, and its seats generally have ample recline options, legroom and canopies that provide ample coverage. A side-byside double stroller has only one drawback: it can be difficult to navigate narrow hallways and crowded sidewalks. Its larger frame can make it more difficult to pass through certain doorways.
Ease of Folding
When selecting a double-travel stroller, the most important factor is ease of folding. This is particularly crucial if you have to fold your stroller on an overcrowded sidewalk or in tight spaces. The best strollers have an intuitive, simple folding process that requires only a few steps. They also fold without awkward complications that result in banging body parts or sliding. Some of our favorite double travel stollers that fold easily are the Evenflo PivotXplore and Babyzen YOYO2 connect Double.
It is crucial to consider the duration of time you'll be using a double travel stroller. If you plan to keep your children in the same seat for at least the pre-school years, you may want to look into a side by side design that allows you to add bassinets or infant car seats. If you think your children are ready to move to separate seats before then the double stroller that converts to a convertible is worth considering.
Some of the top double-strollers we tested have a near flat recline. This makes it easy for your children to nap or eat a snack while they are on the move. Some strollers have an individual recline for each seat (the front seat of the UPPAbaby Vista Double v2 Double reclines almost to the floor and the second seat remains nearly upright). This can lead to kids having a fight over which seat to sit in.
Also, you'll need to think about the size of your vehicle's trunk, as some double strollers are a bit bulky and won't fit in the back of smaller cars. This is why we recommend picking a double stroller which is able to fit in your trunk and can be easily folded and stored when not in use. We also prefer double strollers that have a small footprint, low weight, and a minimalist design. The ZOE pushchair twin+ is one of these. It's the smallest double stroller we test, and with 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-sized approved!
Storage
The behemoth vintage strollers of the 1980s may have given double strollers the wrong impression however, they've progressed a lot. Modern, sleek, modular strollers are available in tandem or side-byside designs. They can be tailored to fit children from birth to kindergarten. Some models also allow for infant car seats, and some even have an adjustable riding board. While you may need to put more money into the purchase however, the investment can yield in flexibility and the resale value.
Some of the things to take into consideration when looking for a double stroller include the weight limit for each seat, storage space, and whether the seats have a recline. A recline that is deep allows for easy napping while on the move and a canopy with UV protection will prevent your child from overheating. Some double strollers offer cup holders for parents and dual snack trays for on-the-go convenience.
Another aspect to take into consideration is the weight of the stroller, as this will impact your ability to lug it around and maneuver it into tight places. Some of the top lightweight strollers, 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 typical single stroller and simple enough to get through airports, through overhead bins, and even into cars.
If you're on a budget, check out used options on sites like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist, which usually have gently used double strollers on sale at bargain prices. Double strollers in good shape are free of loose screws and rust. If you are considering using a used double-stroller with your kids make sure you do a thorough inspection and inspect the wheel axles. Some cities rent strollers, however this option is not available everywhere. It could be costly if you plan on using the stroller frequently.