What to Look For in a Double Stroller

The best double strollers grow with families and provide innovative features that keep kids comfortable and happy. This includes adjustable foot rests as well as an easy ride on gravel, trails and old sidewalks.

Kerry appreciated the fact that the stroller was delivered in multiple boxes, but everything was well-labeled and easy to open. She also appreciated that the stroller can accept two infant car seats, and can be paired up with a riding-board for older children.

Seating Options

When it comes to double strollers, the seating options are what determines the success or failure of the purchase for many families. You'll need to consider the age of your children, the relative sizes of them and the seating configurations you prefer.

Alli Cavasino is a senior editor for Consumer Reports. She says that if you're planning to buy a tandem stroller, it is best to look at one that has children's seats that are connected. This model doesn't require car seat adapters. They're typically larger than other double strollers, they might not fit into standard door frames in your home.

If you're experiencing an age gap between your kids look into a double-seat stroller that has the option to convert to a stand-and-ride model with an elevated or small bench seat in the back for children who wants to casually ride with or observe their sibling. These kinds of in-line strollers can also fit infant car seats in the event that they are needed and are a great choice for children who'll be 3-5 years apart, says Billingsley.

Billingsley explains that you should take into consideration the material used for the seat. Some fabrics are more comfortable than others, and easier to clean. You should also think about how easy it is to fold your stroller for storage or transport between your vehicle and home. "Nothing is more frustrating than buying the perfect stroller, only you realize it's too heavy to carry or too large for your trunk," she says.

If you're seeking a low-cost option that has multiple configurations take a look at this award-winning stroller from Summer Infant. It comes with two toddler seats as well as the bassinet. It can be expanded into a triple stroller by adding an additional seat or a riding board. The seats recline and come with the calf bar controls that can be adjusted independently, which is perfect for when one child wants to rest while the other wants observe their surroundings. It's also compact when folded down and fits easily in most trunks.

Age ranges

For families with kids who are similar in age, a sit-and-stand stroller can provide the best travel double stroller combination of comfort for children and adults and ease of use. They typically come with a seat for an infant or toddler in the front, and a platform or bench that allows an older child to stand or take a ride in the back. They are great for big toddlers and preschoolers, but won't be ideal for babies or children who don't have the balance or coordination to stand on their own.

A narrow tandem stroller can help you keep your eyes on both children simultaneously and can fit into difficult areas like busy aisles in the grocery store or family photos at the park. These models are narrower and more maneuverable than side-byside double strollers however they don't have as much storage space under the carriage and aren't able to accommodate an infant car seats.

If you are planning to use a double stroller for many years, or even over a decade, it's worthwhile buying a stroller that will grow with your kids. Double strollers are typically more expensive than single strollers, but if you choose the right one first time, it can save you money over the course of time.

Our test participants put each of these strollers through a series of maneuverability tests and off-road adventures and found them to be simple to navigate over a variety of terrain. But if you're planning to use it in cities or other urban areas where traffic and sidewalks can be bumpy and uneven, you may want something more sturdy and durable that can handle the rough treatment.

Double strollers are built to last, but the seats may be worn out earlier than you expect or your kids may outgrow them before they're ready for retirement. If you're looking for a bargain you should consider buying one that has been rated for at least four years and aims to last as long as you can.

Simple to use

If you're planning to purchase a double stroller, you need to ensure that it be easy to use for both children. This means a comfortable harness for seated kids and handles that are easy to grab for toddlers who stand. This also means that the stroller rolls easily, and can be maneuvered through tight spaces and around obstacles. The top-rated strollers from our Lab tests, such as the BOB Revolution Flex Duallie or Thule Urban Glide 2 Double, are among the easiest to move around.

It's also important that a double stroller be easy to fold and store. The best models fold down in one or two steps and are small enough to fit into most trunks. It's a plus if you can add a second hand double buggy chair or a ride-along stroller. Some strollers can accommodate infant car seats, meaning you don't have to wake your baby up to move them into the stroller when it's time to go home.

A quality double stroller is also sturdy, so it is able to be used in a variety of types of terrain. For example, some can be converted into a jogging stroller with a specialized front wheel, and some can be used as an umbrella stroller. Some even come with cargo baskets which can be attached to the rear of the stroller to carry shopping bags or groceries.

A tandem or side-by-side stroller is another option worth considering. Side-by-side strollers are typically larger than tandem models, and aren't easy to maneuver through tight spaces such as doorways and aisles of the grocery store. They do offer the convenience of allowing both children to view the same scenery. They are also easier to navigate in a storm as they provide greater protection from the elements for both kids.

Many parents choose to purchase a stroller that can be converted from single to stokke double stroller, to use it for a newborn and then later switch to a regular double once their kiddos are older. After talking to parents, it became apparent that it is better to purchase what you need today rather instead of trying to anticipate what you will need in the near future.

Storage

When looking for double-strollers, it's crucial to consider the amount of storage space available and the dimensions. A lot of models have large, easy-to access baskets that can store plenty of stuff. They often also have numerous cup holders for parents and reversible seating configurations that offer best-in-class legroom for children. Certain of these features could make the price more expensive, so be sure to read reviews and descriptions carefully.

Most double strollers are categorized as tandem or side-byside designs. Tandem strollers feature two seats that are positioned on the same frame, and are generally better suited for older children who have already learned unassisted sitting. They also tend to have a larger storage basket than side-by-side models, though some are awkward or difficult to push when the front seat is fully reclined.

Side-by-side strollers come with two separate seats that are positioned side-by-side, and they're typically better suited to younger babies or toddlers who haven't yet learned independence sitting yet. They also have the added benefit of being generally easier to push and maneuver than tandem strollers. However, they tend to have smaller storage baskets than tandem strollers and may be more expensive.

There are also special double strollers designed for jogging and biking. These are more expensive than basic all terrain double stroller-terrain strollers, and they typically come with fixed front wheels that limit their flexibility. These strollers are only worth considering if you plan to use them in these types of activities.

If you're looking for twins or a baby and an older toddler, or a child who's not quite ready to walk on their own, there's a perfect double stroller for you. The top choices in our tests are versatile, stable, and easy to navigate, with seating that grows as your kids do. Take a look at our top picks for the best double stroller to accommodate your family regardless of whether you are seeking a tandem stroller or one that can accommodate your infant car seat.