Buying a Tandem Double Stroller
A tandem double stroller can be lifesaver for parents who need to lug two kids around the city. They are strong enough to handle most surfaces, and are comfortable for both a toddler and an infant in the car seat.
Testers like the fact that this stroller folds into a slim silhouette by using one hand. It offers plenty of storage space, both for children and adults.
Adjustable Recline
This stroller is a great option if you're looking for an option that can grow with your family. It can be set up as a single-seater model, and then it can be outfitted with the option of a jump seat or a stand-on boards to accommodate older children. It has an adjustable handlebar so even tall parents will find it easy to push and steer (and its rear suspension and three air-filled tires make running effortless also). The separate canopy is large with well-placed peekaboo windows and the seats recline almost flat, although they do require two hands to set back up.
Another advantage is that it fits through most doorways--though it may be too big for some trunks, depending on the vehicle you are using. This double stroller comes with one-point fold, unlike most, that require you to lift a canopy or seat to fold. Instead, it utilizes the strap which is pulled and lifted. It can be folded and stored standing up. However, its buckles can be a little difficult to fasten particularly with the car seat attached. It's also a bit expensive for a double stroller.
The Graco DuoGlider makes a great option for families with a toddler and an infant. It comes with a huge storage basket, a recline that can be adjusted in both seats (although the front seat only reclines to approximately half-way down), and a good amount of padding on the harnesses. It was the most comfortable car seat for both children and adults alike, including those who are more than 6 feet tall. The only drawback is that its length can make it a pain to maneuver through tight spaces, or when juggling kids and groceries.
A top choice among tandem strollers that are budget-friendly that is the Baby Trend Sit N' Stand Double can be used as early as birth with the infant car seat adapter or with a second toddler seat, which is sold separately. Both seats feature a deep recline, a footrest that can be adjusted as well as a UPF 50+ canopy with large peekaboo windows. The front seat can also be turned upside down to face the rear which allows older children to be able to see each other more clearly. The only downside is that it can't fit two infant car seats at the same time and therefore isn't an ideal choice for siblings or twins who are similar in age.
UPF 50+ Canopy
Unless you want your kids to scream and whine for hours on end you should choose a stroller that has canopy that is large enough to accommodate both seats. The top tandem strollers have a UPF 50+ canopy that extends far enough to provide real shade. It also comes with a peekaboo window on each seat. Also, you need a sturdy suspension and large wheels that make them easy to push. After spending more than 100 hours evaluating 17 tandem strollers at the zoo during stroller-enabled fitness classes, while running errands, and during trick-or-treating, we discovered that side-by-side options, like the Chicco BravoFor2 and Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 Double Stroller are more reliable than inline models for maneuverability. They were easier to maneuver and fit through standard doors than other models.
You'll need to consider whether the tandem stroller will be adapted to your family's needs and convenience and comfort features. For instance, if you frequently ride public transport or be able to carry lots of luggage and gear, look for an option with a large storage basket and a bumper bar that folds up under the stroller for transport.
You should also think about how long you plan to use the stroller for. For the majority of families, a quality double stroller can last from newborn to toddler years and possibly beyond. It's worth spending more in the beginning on a stroller you can use for at least several years.
If you frequently travel, you may want to choose a model which can be folded flat, or even with one foot. The best tandem strollers are simple to fold down, which makes them ideal for families on the go.
The type of stroller you pick can have a big impact on your budget and lifestyle when you are considering adding a child. If double pushchair looking for a side-by-side or an inline model, there are a lot of options to suit your needs.
One-Point Fold
Expert stroller reviewers have a key requirement when it comes to buying a tandem double stroller: It must be simple to fold and unfold. This is particularly important since tandem strollers tend to be larger than single strollers, and they can feel heavy being carried. They also take more space in your trunk than a single-stroller.
The best tandem double strollers offer an easy-to-use fold at one point. Some also come with an automatic lock that keeps the stroller from folding when open or in use. This is a great security feature, particularly if you have small children in the front seat.
If you're planning to utilize a tandem stroller to transport children in car seats, it is recommended to select a side-by-side model instead of one that is reversible. Reversible strollers allow you to place your infant in front while placing your older child in back. However, it may be difficult for you to reach your child in the rear while the stroller moves.
Another consideration is the width of the tandem stroller. The majority of double strollers are bigger than single strollers and the width can affect whether or not it can fit through the doors of your home. Measure your standard doorways between 30 and 36 inch width prior to purchasing a tandem stroller.
Contours Options Elite V2 is a stroller that can be used with two infant car seats. This double stroller features seven stadium-style seating options that are perfect for twins. It also fits most infant carseats. It has a variety of great features including reversible seats, adjustable footrests, and a zippered extension on both canopy. It's also a great value, and parents have given positive reviews. The only issue is that it does not recline in the back, which could be problematic for kids who are napping. It does have an ample storage bin as well as a parent tray that's covered and comes with cup holders. It's still a great option for families with children.
Easy Assembly
It doesn't matter if you were surprised to learn that you are expecting twins, or if you were aware that you would be having another child in the same way as you planned. You need to think about how you'll get your children from A to B. There are many different types of double strollers for parents with multiple children. We tested tandem strollers that have seats that face each other, or side-by-side so that children can communicate and interact while on the move. Many tandem strollers work with infant car seats as well as standard stroller chairs for children. They also have high-low seating that allows both children to see their surroundings.
Most of our tandem stroller picks fold easily and are small enough to fit into the trunk of your car or into storage at home. Some tandem strollers require that you remove the seat to fold them. This is typical for side-by-side strollers. However, this can reduce their overall storage capacity. This is something to keep in mind when choosing the perfect model, as well as assessing the dimensions of any doors that you'll need to get the stroller through.
In addition to a fold that can be folded with one hand, many of our top tandem picks also offer adjustable reclining for both seats and large canopy that protects your children from the elements of sun and wind. These tandems also have cup holders for parents, onboard storage for snacks or other gear, and brakes that are easy to access. They also come with a sturdy handlebar and easily accessible breaks. Many models are compatible with piggyback ride-along board attachments that allow toddlers and older siblings to enjoy the ride.
Look for used tandem strollers online if you want to save money on a purchase. You can find a wide selection of used double strollers for sale on marketplaces like Facebook and Craigslist that can be purchased at a fraction of the cost of new models. Make sure to inspect the stroller for rust and loose screws, as well as any recalls. It's worth the effort to find a good deal on a stroller that will last for many years.