Buying a Small Double Stroller

A double stroller is a major purchase, and it's one you'll be using for years. You should choose wisely.

Our testers were looking for strollers that had amazing mobility and smooth rides across all terrains. They also examined whether they were easy to fold and maneuver.

Size

There are many different styles of double strollers on the market, ranging from side-byside to tandem (single double stroller-file seating) and wagons. The category has advanced from the behemoth vintage 1980s models that many older generations might have recalled. Nowadays they're sleek and offer various customization options to make the experience of traveling with children more enjoyable for all involved.

For parents with infants or toddlers in tow, an extra stroller that has car seats is a great option for taking them from A B. Some of the most advanced strollers available feature a single frame that can hold two infant car seats or convertible toddler seats, allowing them to be used from birth until children reach kindergarten age. They're generally more expensive than a standard double stroller frame, but they also come with the convenience of a built-in car seat system, as well as a spacious undercarriage basket that can accommodate both car seats.

Parents with fewer children may opt for a single-to-double stroller that is simpler and less expensive. These strollers are typically lighter, and some moms still use their stroller after their children have outgrown it.

Another advantage of some of the smallest double strollers we've tested is their compact fold. They can fit in places that larger strollers can't and are often easier to maneuver once folded.

Most of the double strollers that we tested have a decent-sized sunshade. However, the amount of shade coverage can vary from a bare spot to a cocoon. For families on a budget it's worth looking at secondhand strollers on sites like Facebook Marketplace to see if there's a stroller that will meet your family's needs--just be sure to inspect any used stroller carefully for signs of wear and tear before committing to buying one.

Weight

When choosing a small double stroller, parents need to think about how much they would like to spend and whether it's 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 also not have a a large canopy or other features that would make the stroller more convenient to use for long trips.

The most reliable double strollers are durable and easy to maneuver, which helps to ensure that the children remain comfortable in their seats and do not move around when they ride. Strollers that have padded seatbacks as well as adjustable leg rests get higher marks in our comfort tests than strollers without. The best double strollers provide reclining seating options which allow children to unwind during long trips.

Strollers that can be used for a variety of reasons are more popular than ever thanks to innovative designs and thoughtful features. Some of the best strollers can be used with multiple car seats and provide a wide range of seating options from birth through preschool. Some are so light that they can be used for jogging or traveling.

One of the most important things to consider when choosing a small double stroller is whether or not it will fit through doorways and other tight spaces. Most older models of side-by-side strollers and tandem strollers are wide in general that makes them incompatible with numerous doors. The best small double strollers tend to be narrower than standard models and can be pushed right into the majority of doors with ease.

Another thing to consider is whether you'll need a stroller with additional features like a cup holder or snack tray. These are useful for longer trips, but they add to the weight and cost of the double stroller.

Folding

A small double stroller can fold compactly to fit into small spaces. It is also easy to keep in storage. A light design makes it easy to carry and move.

Before you choose a compact double stroller, think about the location you intend to use it and how often. The answer to these questions will help you determine the essential features. For example, if you are planning to use the stroller for running then you'll want to find one with a smooth suspension that will glide across rough and paved terrain.

Also, think about the temperament and age of your children. If they are near in age, then a side-byside stroller might be the best choice. If they are at different stages of development then an incline stroller could be the best choice for you.

A double stroller is expensive but it will pay off in the long run. Investing in a quality model that is suited to your family's needs will make travel with kids easier, and it will also offer years of convenience for you and your kids.

If you're short on storage space, a double stroller is an ideal choice. It can hold both infant car seats as well as toddlers. Evenflo Pivot Xplore Wagon can accommodate twins and is a great option for families with two children. It has dual canopies, an attachable storage bin, and a child's tray with cup holders. This lightweight, budget-friendly stroller is easy to fold and can be carried with only one hand. It is worth pointing out, however, that most double modular strollers require you to take off the second seat prior to folding them.

Maneuverability

The best small double strollers are easy to maneuver and feature smooth and responsive wheels that can glide across any surface. These strollers also come with comfortable, reclining seats and ample storage space for children's gear. Many of these strollers are also compatible with toddler and infant seats and car seat carriers. These features make them a great option for families that want one stroller that can expand with their family.

Alli Cavasino, a certified child passenger safety technician who advises parents on strollers and travel equipment She suggests choosing a light stroller that is easy to push. "Strollers that are too heavy could cause frame fatigue and injury," she says. "If your stroller feels heavy and difficult to push, think about including a ride-along board, or reducing the number of children in the seat."

Several of the small double buggy double strollers we tested can accommodate multiple infant car seat carriers. The UPPAbaby Vista v2 double, for example can hold two infant seats or toddler seats at a time, and can be converted into three seats with the RumbleSeat add-on. It also has a stylish inline design, with foam-filled tires that won't go flat and an adjustable telescoping handlebar. The seat belts are simple to fasten and undo, and its UPF 50+ sunshades come with windows that peek out.

Other models are available with multiple seating configurations. They can be used for twins or triplets, a larger child and an infant or an infant riding a scooter (sold separately). These models also come with brakes that are simple to use and the compact fold that fits into the majority of trunks. Some are light enough to schlep up and down the stairs. They require minimal assembly. The Joovy Caboose however, requires a few tools and was among the most difficult to build during our tests.

Safety

The top double strollers have multiple safety features, including adjustable handlebars that give you a comfortable grip and a wide base that won't tip when the kids jump out of their seats. The canopies are large enough to protect both children in the event of rain. Alli Cavasino is a certified child safety technician. She says they are simple to use. "Look for an easy oneor two-step fold that is easy to carry and has a clear, obvious place to put the straps," she advises.

The tiniest strollers are able to pass through doors easily. This is a huge advantage if you live in a small apartment or have a limited car. The smallest models are also much lighter than traditional double strollers, which makes them much easier to carry from one location to another. No needing to strain your arms or back as you sling an oversized stroller on your shoulder.

Parents who have kids older than their age could consider a side-by-side stroller like our top pick one, pushchairsandprams the Joovy Kooper X2, which has two child seats which can be adjusted for the width and recline independently. In our testing the seats, we found them to be extremely comfortable, and recline to be quick and intuitive with just a single lever on each seat. It also has an ample storage basket, a parking brake that's one-step (to reduce fatigue in hands when stopping) and some of our top harnesses.

If you have children that are from each other in age, a sit-and-stand stroller like our top pick, the UPPAbaby Vista Double, may be a good choice. It can fit two car seats for infants, and it has a pair modified seats that double as bassinets.