Choosing a Double Travel Stroller
A double stroller is a lifesaver when you have a lot of children. Pick a stroller that is lightweight and can fold down so that it can fit in the trunk of your car or in an overhead bin.
Check the manufacturer's seat weight guidelines and avoid exceeding them to avoid frame fatigue. Other must-haves are adjustable canopies as well as a seating option that is flexible for children of various age groups, and plenty of storage.
Simple to use
Double strollers have an undeserved reputation for being cumbersome and difficult to put together however, this type of strollers has come a long way from the massive models of the 1980s. The best double strollers feature a sleek design and can be tailored to meet your family's unique needs, whether it's a tandem (single file seating) or a side-byside configuration. They're also lightweight enough for transport and fit in the trunks of cars as well as onto planes which allows them to be gate-checked like any other luggage.
It is essential to have a stroller easy to maneuver over different surfaces and fits into tight spaces, particularly for families who live in urban areas where space is scarce and public transport is the main mode of transport. The lightweight and agile double strollers that we test can navigate the crowded sidewalks and narrow subway gates, making them indispensable for city life.
We evaluate a stroller's ease of use by looking at several factors, such as how fast and simple the folding and setup process is, as well as whether it is able to be adjusted to accommodate different family members with varying 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 seat and canopy. The Zoe Twin+ was rated highest in this category due to its huge canopy as well as its ample storage bin and its quick fold.
The Mountain Buggy Nano Duo stroller is an excellent choice to consider if you're looking for a lightweight stroller that is able to fit into small car trunks. It's one of the lightest double strollers that we've tested. It also folds into compact, easy-to-transport packages. It's the lightest double umbrella-style stroller we've ever tried and is a great choice for travel. Some airlines permit you to gate-check this stroller.
A side-by-side car seat that can hold two infants is essential for parents of twins. Some double strollers , like the Graco DuoGlider Elite, allow you to use both infant car seats at once this saves time and energy by removing the need for switching out children. It is also possible to consider a tandem stroller, which will allow you to keep both kids in your sight and in earshot.
Comfort
If you want to make sure your children are comfortable during walks, a comfortable cushioned seat is vital. It is recommended to choose a stroller that has a reclining backrest, a backrest that can be adjusted, and a wide seat that allows your child to sit up or stretch out. For added comfort, consider a stroller with a large undercarriage that is able to accommodate bags of storage and other things without interfering with the seats' position.
The weight and size can also influence the performance of the double travel jogger. Select a model with robust wheels and suspension that allow it to effortlessly glide over rough surfaces. A good double stroller can also turn in tight spaces, navigate narrow hallways and crowded sidewalks and subway gates. If you plan to use a double stroller regularly you should choose one that folds in a matter of a few steps and can fit into your trunk or a small vehicle.
Double strollers are commonly used by parents traveling with their children, particularly in urban areas that are densely urbanized and where public transportation is prevalent. This situation is ideal for a slimmer and modular double stroller like the CYBEX Gazelle, which allows parents to mix and combine seats, cots and car seats to meet changing requirements.
A double umbrella stroller is another option. They tend to be lighter and smaller than the standard ones. These are usually ideal for travel, since they fold quickly and easily and can be gate checked on airplanes, and typically comply with Disney's stroller size specifications. They also have plenty of space onboard for snacks, toys, and other equipment.
A side-byside double stroller is ideal for parents who have twins, or siblings that are close in age. This type of double-stroller is usually cheaper than one with a modular frame. Its seats have plenty of recline options, legroom and canopy covers that offer ample coverage. The only drawback to a side-by-side stroller is that it could be difficult to maneuver in narrow hallways or crowded sidewalks, and the wider frame can make it more difficult to get through certain doors.
Folding is easy
When you are choosing a double travel stroller, the most important factor is the ease of folding. This is especially important if you have to fold your stroller on an overcrowded sidewalk or in tight spaces. The most efficient strollers fold in only a few steps that are easy and simple. They fold without awkward complexities which can cause a bang on body parts or sliding. The Babyzen YOYO2 Connect Double and the Evenflo PivotXplore are two of our most favored double travel strollers that fold quickly and compactly.
It is important to think about the duration you'll be using a double travel stroller. If you intend to keep your children in the same seats for at least the preschool years, you might consider a side-by-side model that allows you to add bassinets or infant car seats. Convertible double strollers are a good option if you believe your children are ready to move into separate seats prior to that point.
Some of the best double strollers in our reviews have a recline that is nearly flat, which makes it comfortable for your kids to nap or take a break for a snack while out and about. However, some strollers come with an individual recline for each seat (the front seat on the UPPAbaby Vista Double v2 Double is almost flat, while the second seat remains nearly upright). This kind of disparity in seating can cause children to fight over which seat they'd like to sit on.
You'll have to consider the dimensions of your trunk car, as some double strollers can be large and cannot fit in the backs of smaller vehicles. We suggest that you pick a double stroller which fits easily into your trunk and is able to be folded and put away when it's not in use. We also recommend double strollers with smaller footprints with a low weight and simple design, like the ZOE Twin+. It is the smallest double stroller that we tested. At just over 19 lbs it's one the lightest strollers to still allow for airline check-in weight limits for luggage. It's Disney-sized-approved!
Stores
Double strollers may have gotten an unpopular reputation due to the behemoth vintage 1980s versions many elder millennials remember, but they've come a long way. These days modern, minimalist models are able to accommodate a variety of customizations, fit kids from birth through kindergarten, and are available in side-byside or tandem (single-file seating) designs. Some models also allow for infant car seats, and some have an attached riding board. You might have to pay more initially, but the investment will pay off in the form of the flexibility and resale.
Some of the things to take into consideration when choosing a double travel stroller are the weight limit per seat, storage space and whether each seat has a recline. A recline that is deep is ideal for naps while on the go, and a canopy that provides UV protection helps keep kiddos from getting too hot in the sun. Some double strollers also offer parent-facing cupholders and dual snack tray for on-the-go convenience.
The weight of the stroller is also crucial, as it affects your ability to maneuver in tight areas. Some of the best 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 a single stroller and is easy to transport through airports and into vehicles.
If you're on a budget look for used options on sites like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist, which often have gently-used double strollers for sale at low prices. Look for a double stroller in good shape and free of corrosion or loose screws. Once you've got a used double stroller, make sure you perform an exhaustive inspection, including checking the axles of the wheels for damage, before using it with your kids. Some cities rent strollers, however this option is not available everywhere. It could be costly if you plan on using the stroller frequently.