Buying a Small Double Stroller

A double stroller is a major purchase, and it's one you'll use for years. This is why you must pick wisely.

Our test participants looked at strollers that offer incredible flexibility and smooth rides on any terrain. They also checked whether the strollers were easy to fold and maneuver.

Size

There are many styles of double strollers on the market, including side-by-side, tandem (single-file) and wagons. The style has changed from the old 1980s designs that older millennials may remember. Today, they are sleek and offer a variety of options to make traveling with kids more enjoyable for all.

For parents of toddlers or infants, a double stroller and car seat is an excellent option for bringing them from point A to B. Some of the most advanced strollers come with frames that can accommodate two infant car seats or convertible toddler seats. This lets them be used by children as young as until they reach the age of kindergarten. They're generally more expensive than a double stroller frame however they include a car seat system and a large undercarriage basket.

Parents with less children can opt for a single-to double-stroller, which is more simple and less expensive. These strollers are generally lighter in weight, and some moms have even told us they're still using their original stroller after their children outgrew it.

Another advantage of a few of the tiniest double strollers we've tested is the compact fold. They can fit in spaces where larger strollers wouldn't and are often more maneuverable once folded.

In addition, all of the compact double strollers we've tested feature a nice-sized sunshade, although the coverage can vary from almost nothing to a cocoon-like covering. If you're looking for a bargain, you might want to check out secondhand strollers on auction sites like Facebook Marketplace. Just make sure to inspect the stroller for wear and tear prior to buying it.

Weight

When shopping for a small double stroller, parents must be aware of the amount they wish to spend and if it is a good fit for their family's lifestyle. A stroller that is light is one example. It may not have enough storage to accommodate large bags or additional gear. It may not have a large canopy or other features to make it easier to use on long trips.

The most comfortable double strollers are easy to maneuver and durable, so that the children can remain comfortable and not be confined to their seats. In our tests for comfort we give higher marks to strollers with adjustable seatbacks and leg rests with padding. The top double strollers provide reclining seating options which allow children to relax on long rides.

Innovative designs and clever features have made strollers that can be used in a variety of ways more popular than ever. Some of the best options are able to accommodate multiple car seat configurations and provide an extended range of seating configurations from infant to preschool. Others are even lightweight enough to run or even travel with.

One of the most important aspects to take into consideration when selecting a small double stroller is whether it will fit through doorways and other narrow spaces. Older models of tandem strollers and side-by-side strollers are usually too large to pass through many doors. The best small double strollers are usually narrower than traditional models and can be easily pushed into most standard doorways easily.

It is also important to consider whether you require a stroller with additional features like an holder for your cup and a snack tray. These are helpful for longer trips but will add weight and expense to a double stroller.

Folding

A small double stroller can fold compactly to fit into small spaces. It is also easy to store. A lightweight twin stroller design makes it easy to carry and move.

Before you pick a compact double stroller, think about where you will be using it and how often. The answer to these questions will help you determine the features that are most important. For instance, if you intend to run with the stroller you'll need to look for one with a smooth suspension that will glide over pavement and rough terrain.

Consider the age and temperament of your children too. If they're of the same age and temperament, a side-by-side stroller could be the best option. If they are at different stages of development, then a tandem model may be better suited to your requirements.

A double stroller can be costly however, the investment will pay off over time. A high-quality model that meets your family's needs can simplify the process of traveling with kids. It will also provide you and your children with years of comfort.

If you have limited storage space, you might want to consider a compact double stroller that can fit both infant car seats and toddlers. Evenflo Pivot Xplore Wagon can accommodate twins and is a great option for families with two children. It comes with two canopies as well as an attached storage bin, and a child's tray with cup holders. This stroller is budget-friendly and offers an easy and quick fold, and it can be carried by one hand. It is important to know that you must remove the second seat on the majority of double modular strollers before folding.

Maneuverability

The best small double strollers are easy to maneuver and feature smooth, supple wheels that glide over any surface. They also have comfortable, reclining seats as well as ample storage space for your kids' toys. In addition, many of these strollers can accommodate car seat carriers and infant toddler seats. These features make them a great choice for families who want one stroller that can expand with their family.

Alli Cavasino is a certified child safety technician and travel gear expert who advises parents on strollers and other travel equipment. She recommends choosing a lightweight, easy-to-push model. "Strollers that are too heavy can cause frame fatigue and injury," she says. "If your twin stroller with car seats is weighing too much and difficult to push, think about adding a ride-along deck or reduce the number of kids in the seat."

A few of the smaller double buggy side by side strollers we tried can accommodate multiple infant car seat carriers. The UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double, for example, can hold two infant car seats or toddler seats simultaneously and converts into a three-seater configuration by using the add-on RumbleSeat. It also features a stylish inline design with foam-filled tires that won't flatten and an adjustable handbar that telescopically adjusts. The seat buckles are among the easiest to unfasten and fasten and its large UPF 50+ sunshades come with windows that peek out.

Other models come with different seating configurations. They can be used with twins or triplets, a larger child and an infant or the toddler who is riding on a scooter (sold separately). They also come with easy-to-use brakes and a relatively compact fold that fits into most trunks. Some are so light that they can be transported up and down stairs. The majority of them require little assembly. The Joovy Caboose, however, requires a few tools and was the most difficult to construct during our tests.

Safety

The top double strollers are outfitted with a variety of safety features. They have adjustable handlebars that provide a comfortable grip, and a wide base so it won't tip over when the children get out of their seats. They also come with large canopy that protect both kids rain or storms. Alli Cavasino is a certified child safety technician. She says they're easy to use. "Look for an easy one or two-step fold that is easy to carry and has a space where the straps can be positioned," she says.

The most compact double strollers fit easily through doors, which is a major benefit for those with an incredibly small car or a tiny living space. The smallest models weigh less than standard double strollers. This makes them easier to carry from one location to the next.

Parents with children of the same age may opt for an X-style stroller that is side by side one of our top choice: the Joovy Kooper X2, that includes two child seats that can be individually adjusted to recline and width. In our testing we discovered that the seats are very comfortable and the recline was smooth and intuitive. Each seat is equipped with only one lever. It also comes with an ample storage basket, a built-in parking brake that is one-step (to reduce fatigue in the hands when stopping) and a few of our best harnesses.

If you have children who are from each other in terms of age, then a sit-and-stand stroller, like our top pick, the UPPAbaby Vista Double, may be a good choice. It can accommodate two infant car seats, and also has a pair of modified seats that act as bassinets for older children. It can also be modified to accommodate a riding board for an even older sibling.