Choosing a Double Travel Stroller
A double stroller can be a lifesaver if you have multiple kids. Find one that is lightweight and compact enough to fit in the trunk of your car or in an overhead bin of an airplane.
Do not exceed the recommended weight of the seat to avoid frame fatigue. Other must-haves include versatile seating arrangements for kids of varying age, aprons that can be adjusted and plenty of storage.
Simple to Use
Double strollers have a bad rap for being heavy and difficult to put together, but this category of strollers has advanced from the massive 1980s versions. The best double strollers have modern designs and can be tailored to meet your family's particular requirements, whether it's a tandem (single seat in the file) or a side-byside configuration. They're also light enough to travel and to fit in the trunks of cars as well as on planes which allows them to be gate-checked like any other luggage.
A stroller that is easy to navigate over various ground surfaces and fit into tight spaces is particularly crucial for families living in urban environments in which space is limited and public transportation is the primary method of transportation. The light and agile double strollers we tested can weave through the crowded streets and squeeze through subway gates. They are essential for urban life.
We assess a stroller's ease of use by considering a number of aspects, including how quick and intuitive the setup and folding process is, and if it is able to be adjusted to accommodate families with different heights. We also look for a spacious storage bin and reclined seats that are easy to access and adjust, as well as an extremely high weight limit for the seat and canopy. The Zoe Twin+ earned top scores in this category due to its adequate storage bin with super-sized canopy, as well as a easy folding.
If you're looking for a lightweight stroller that will easily fit into trunks of cars that are small the Mountain Buggy Nano Duo is an excellent option. It's among the lightest double strollers we've tried, and it folds down into smaller size, making it easy to carry up and down stairs than other models. It's also the smallest double umbrella stroller we've tested which makes it an excellent option for travel. It can even be gate-checked on some airlines.
A car seat with a side-by-side 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 consider a tandem stroller, that will allow you to keep both kids in the same area and within in earshot.
Comfort
A padded, high-quality seat is essential for ensuring your child's safety on walks. It is recommended to choose an infant stroller with a recline backrest, adjustable backrest, and a wide seat so that your child can sit up or stretch out. For added comfort, consider a stroller that has a spacious undercarriage that can accommodate bags for storage and other items without interfering with the seat's position.
The size and weight of a double stroller can also affect its performance. Choose tandem double stroller that has solid wheels and suspension that glides easily over rough surfaces. A good double stroller can also navigate tight spaces, maneuver through narrow corridors and busy subway gates. 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 a small vehicle.
Double strollers are frequently used by parents who travel with small children, especially in urban areas that are heavily populous and where public transportation is a common feature. This situation is ideal for a slimmer and modular double stroller like the CYBEX Gazelle which allows parents to mix and blend seats, cots and car seats to accommodate changing requirements.
A double umbrella stroller is another option. They are typically lighter and more compact models than the standard ones. These are usually ideal for travel, since they fold easily and quickly and are gate-checked on airplanes, and often meet the Disney stroller size requirements. They also have plenty of onboard storage for snacks, toys and other gear.
A side-byside double stroller is best for parents with twins or siblings who are close in age. This type of double stroller is generally cheaper than a modular one, and the seats typically offer plenty of recline options, legroom and canopies that provide ample coverage. The only disadvantage of a side-by-side stroller is that it may be more difficult to maneuver through narrow corridors or in crowded sidewalks and the larger frame can make it more difficult to pass through some doorways.
Ease of folding
The folding ease is the most important factor to consider when choosing a double travel pram. This is especially important if you have to fold your stroller into tight spaces or on crowded sidewalks with cars and people close by. The best strollers feature an intuitive, simple folding process that requires only a few steps. They fold quickly and without any twitches which could lead to body parts hitting each one another or sliding. Some of our favorite double travel stollers that fold easily are the Evenflo Pivot Xplore and the Babyzen YOYO2 connect Double.
It's important to consider the duration of time you'll be using a double stroller. If you plan to keep your children in the same seat for at least the preschool years, you might want to look into the side-by-side design that allows you to add infant car seat or bassinets. If you think your kids will be ready to transition to separate seats prior to the double stroller that converts to a convertible is worth considering.
The top double strollers we've reviewed have a recline that is nearly flat, which makes it comfortable for your kids to nap or have a snack break while out and about. Some strollers have distinct reclines 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 take a seat in.
You'll also need to consider the size of your car's trunk, as some double travel strollers are a bit bulky and won't fit in the back of cars with smaller trunks. We suggest that you pick a double stroller which fits easily into the trunk of your car and can be folded and put away when it's not in use. We also recommend double strollers with tiny footprints, low weight, and a simple design. The ZOE Twin+ is one of these. It's the smallest double stroller we tested, and at just over 19 pounds, it's one of the lightest strollers and can still be used to meet the airline gate-check baggage weight limits. It's also Disney-sized-approved!
Storage
The massive vintage strollers of the 1980s could have given double strollers an unpopular image however, they've come a long ways. Nowadays, 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) formats. Some models also accommodate infant car seats, and some include an adjustable riding board. It is possible to pay more initially but the investment will pay off with versatility and resale.
A few factors to consider when looking for a double travel stroller include the weight limit for each seat, storage space, and whether the seats have recline. A deep recline is great for naps while on the go, and a canopy with UV protection can help keep kids from overheating in the sun. Some double strollers have cup holders for parents as well as two snack trays to make it easier on the move.
The weight of the stroller is crucial, as it can affect your ability to maneuver it in tight places. Some of the best strollers that are lightweight, like 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 easy to carry through airports and into cars.
If you're on the tightest budget, think about exploring double strollers on websites such as Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist. These sites often offer gently used double strollers at bargain prices. Double strollers in good condition are free of loose screws and rust. If you've found a second-hand double stroller ensure that you conduct an exhaustive inspection, including looking over the wheel axles for damage before using it with your children. There are strollers for rent in some cities, although this option isn't available everywhere and could be expensive if you plan to use the stroller frequently.