Buying a double buggy travel system Infant Stroller
A double stroller is a convenient way for parents to transport multiple children. The best strollers are simple to fold and transport and fit nicely in the trunk of a car and offer versatile seating arrangements for children of different age groups.
If your children are similar in age, you may find that a sit-and-stand or side-byside style is the best way to avoid fighting between siblings over which seat to use. We also like options which accept two infant car seat such as the UPPAbaby V2 double.
Comfort
A comfortable stroller is key for both your toddler and baby. Select a stroller with comfortable seats and swiveling tires on the front to smooth out road bumps. Also, pick one with buckles that can be easily fastened and unfastened.
Find a large UPF 50+ canopy to provide sun protection for both children and their parents. Another feature that is comfortable is the adjustable footrests, which let your child sit up in the back seat if they are tired. Some double strollers, such as the best-selling model from Safety 1st, offer this option for both children.
The number of seats in your stroller will depend on the weight and age of the children who will be using it. For instance, a side by side stroller lets you keep an eye on two children at the same time which is perfect for twins or siblings who are close in age. However, it’s generally larger than other types and can be challenging to maneuver in tight spaces or in areas with a lot of people.
Sit-and-stand prams allow older siblings to stand up while you push a smaller child in the infant car seat. It’s not the best option for newborns but can be useful for older children who can walk longer distances.
Another option is a convertible stroller, which has multiple seating arrangements and can be used as a double or single for a long time. Rebecca says this type of stroller is a great choice for parents who want to purchase one stroller, but want to use it with two kids. It’s more expensive than the top tandem pick but it will last for an extended period of time and comes with a great resale price, she says.
This stroller by UPPAbaby is a double stroller that converts into a single or a toddler-and-RumbleSeat configuration. It is not as compact as other models however it has an elegant design and top-quality material. It’s compatible with UPPAbaby car seats and comes with a telescoping bar and easy-to press brakes. It also comes with foam-filled tires that aren’t flat, and an ample storage basket.
Ease of Use
A double stroller can be a costly investment. Parents are looking for models that are simple to use. That means a wide range of features, ranging from the possibility of folding it down to the ability to adjust the height of the handlebar for different users, should be available. Some models come with multiple storage compartments to allow families to organize their belongings to make them easy to access. They also come with parent consoles and organizer bags that keep phones, keys and other essentials on the ready.
A stroller should be able to adapt to your family’s needs throughout the years as well. Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double, for instance is an affordable stroller that comes with a modular system. This allows you to add a second seat, transform the stroller into a triple by adding the addition of a board, or change to a single-mode by adding a rear bench. This flexibility lets a double stroller to last for as long as it is needed.
In terms of maneuverability, many side-by-side models are difficult to maneuver, but our Lab testers were pleasantly surprised by the ease of use and maneuverability of the Baby Jogger City Mini GT2. This model is compatible with all of our top-rated infant car seats and is suitable for twins and children of different age. Its telescoping handlebar and simple-to-use brakes make it much easier to maneuver over the other double strollers we tested.
The UPPAbaby vist v2 double, however, has a streamlined look and an ample basket that can accommodate two toddler car seats or an infant car seat along with a standard child’s seat. It can be used by one child from age three. Its tires that are filled with foam are designed to not go flat.
In addition it’s light at just 18 pounds and folds in half to make a slim and sleek box that’s easy to transport and store. It’s also simple to open and close with an latch, and requires no tools to put together. Our Lab experts chose it as the best choice for its affordability, shopability and longevity.
Ease of Storage
Double strollers need to be able to carry diaper bags, water bottles, snacks, toys and jackets for the kids as well as parents’ wallets, keys phones and other things. They should also be able to glide over different surfaces, and maneuver in tight spaces. When not in use they often have to fit into the trunk of a car.
To meet these needs Double strollers can be constructed in a variety of designs. They can be tandem or side-by-side with seats that can be removed or fixed or come with infant car seats and a riding board. They can also be designed to fit one toddler or infant or twins. Some are designed for running, while others could be used on trails for hiking or at the beach.
Modular designs are particularly useful for families that need to grow with their strollers. The CYBEX Gazelle, for example, allows parents to mix and combine seat units, cots, and car seats to let the stroller suitable for the entire family from newborn to toddlerhood.
Other modular double strollers like the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double can be adapted to one child with the use of the bassinet or baby seat, or a toddler by using a standing board or jump seat (sold separately). The UPPAbaby’s versatility allows it to be set up in 30 different ways, making it suitable for twins and siblings, or for an expanding family.
The UPPAbaby is also a proponent of green and sustainability initiatives. The UPPAbaby comes in many colors, and its materials are made out of recycled water bottles. In our testing, our test participant Raul utilized the Double Infant Strollers stroller with his three-year old daughter and 5-month-old son. Raul says it was simple to disassemble and unpack because the components were neatly labeled boxes, with instructions and a video code.
Another amazing aspect of the UPPAbaby is its telescoping handlebar as well as one-handed brakes that can be operated using only your thumb. And its swiveling front wheels allow it to make tight turns on city sidewalks.
Safety
Double strollers are often accused of being heavy and difficult to maneuver. They are also heavy. However, the newest models are sleeker and come with a variety of customization options. You can find one that is compatible with an infant car seat, making it easier to travel with two children.
If you’re in the market for a side-by-side or an in-line double stroller, make sure it’s JPMA certified to ensure that it meets the minimum safety standards and passes regular inspections. You’ll also want to choose an adjustable suspension system that gives a smooth ride and doesn’t cause bumps, or jostling for your little ones in the front seat. And if your stroller has a handlebar, be sure it’s adjustable to fit the different heights.
A canopy can shield your baby from harsh sunlight and harsh weather. The most effective canopies come with the option of a reversible flap, or a clear plastic peek-a-boo window to allow you to monitor your children without disturbing them. Some canopies also come with visors to block direct sun.
Another important factor to consider is how easy the stroller folds and unfolds. Compact strollers are simpler to put in the trunk of your car and take up less room. Strollers with a single button to fold the chassis are easier to use.
When choosing a double stroller, bear in mind how far apart your children are in age and what kind of outings you are planning to take them on. If your children are close in age, you could opt for a tandem high/low stroller to allow them to interact when outings. If your children are separated by an age gap that is large, you may choose a model that allows them to have more privacy.
If you’re going to be using your stroller with baby car seats, search for a model that works with top-rated car seats and has a high attachment score. It won’t have as much of an impact on your overall rating as other factors, but it’s an important consideration if you’re planning on using adapters for car seats.
