Buying a Tandem Double Stroller
A tandem double stroller is a godsend for parents who need to carry two children around the city. They are strong enough to take on most surfaces, and are comfortable for a toddler as well as an infant in the car seat.
The fact that the stroller can be folded into a slim silhouette with just one hand is a big benefit for those who test it. It also has a large amount of storage space onboard for adults and kids.
Adjustable Recline
If you're looking for a stroller that can grow with your family this is a great choice. It starts out as a single stroller but can be outfitted with a second seat, jump seat or stand-on boards for 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 jogging feel effortless, too). The canopies are large and have well-placed peekaboo window. The seats also recline almost flat. However, they need two hands to bring them back up.
Another plus is that it fits through the majority of doors, though it could be too long for some trunks, depending on your vehicle. This double stroller comes with a one point fold, unlike most, that require you to lift a canopy or seat to fold. Instead, it has the strap which is pulled and lifted. It can be folded and put away standing up. It's buckles can be a bit difficult to fasten when the car seat is attached.
The Graco DuoGlider is a solid choice for families with a toddler and an infant. It has a huge storage basket, a recline that can be adjusted on both seats (although only the front seat goes down around half way), and comfortable padding for the harnesses. It was the most comfortable car seat for children and adults alike, including those who are more than 6 feet tall. Its length could be a challenge in tight spaces, and also when juggling children and groceries.
The best option among tandem strollers with a budget, the Baby Trend Sit N' Stand Double can be used as early as birth with the included infant car seat adapter or with an additional toddler seat that is available separately. Both seats feature a deep recline and a footrest that is adjustable. They also have a UPF 50+ canopy with a large peekaboo window. The front seat can be flipped to face the back which allows older children to be more visible to each other. The only downside is that it's unable to accommodate two infant car seats simultaneously which means it's not suitable for twins or siblings of similar age.
UPF 50+ Canopy
If you don't want your children to scream and yell the entire time it is essential to have a stroller that has canopy that is large enough for both seats. The top tandem strollers have a UPF50+ canopy that reaches far enough to offer real shade. They also come with windows that peek out from each seat. You also need a good suspension and large wheels that make them easy to push. After testing 17 tandem strollers over 100 hours at the zoo, and during stroller-enabled classes as well as running the errands, and trick-or-treating we discovered that side-by-side models such as the Chicco BravoFor2 or Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 Double Stroller proved to be more stable in terms of maneuverability than inline models. They were more easy to turn and could be inserted into standard doorways than most other models.
You'll need to consider whether the tandem stroller is able to meet the needs of your family, in addition to comfort and convenience features. For example when you often take public transportation or need to be able to carry a large amount of luggage and gear, look for a model with a large storage basket and a bumper bar that folds up under the stroller to transport it.
double seat stroller should also think about the length of time you intend to use the stroller. For the majority of families, a quality double stroller can last from newborn to toddler years and possibly beyond. Therefore, it's worth paying more upfront if you know that you'll be able to use the stroller for a few years at a minimum.
If you are a frequent traveler you might want to consider one that can be folded flat or by using just one foot. The top tandem double strollers can fold down in seconds, making them ideal for families on the go.
If you're thinking about having a second child, the style of stroller you select will have a significant impact on your budget and lifestyle. Whether you want a side-by-side or an inline model, there are plenty of options to suit your requirements.
One-Point Fold
Expert stroller reviewers have a essential requirement to buying a tandem double stroller: It has to be simple to fold and unfold. This is particularly important since tandem strollers are typically larger than single strollers, and can feel heavy when being driven. They also take up more space in your trunk than a single-stroller.
The best tandem double strollers feature a one-point fold that is simple to use. Some also come with an automatic lock, which prevents the stroller from folding once open or in use. This is a safety feature you should think about especially if your child is in the front seat.
If you plan to utilize a tandem stroller to transport children in car seats, it's 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 can be difficult to reach the child in the rear while the stroller is moving.
The size of the tandem stroller is important. Most double strollers are wider than single strollers, and the width can impact the likelihood that it will fit through the doors of your home. Doors are typically between 30 and 36 inches wide, so make sure to measure them 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 different stadium-style seating options that are ideal for twins, and it can also fit the majority of infant car seats. It is packed with a myriad of features, including reversible seats adjustable footrests and zippered extension on both canopy. It's also affordable and has received excellent reviews from parents. The only drawback is that it does not recline at the back, which can be problematic for kids who are napping. However, it has an ample storage basket as well as a covered tray for parents with cup holders. This is still a great option for most families.
Easy Assembly
If you're shocked to discover you're expecting twins or were expecting a second child in the pipeline as planned, now is the time to consider the best way to get from Point A to Point B with your kids in the stroller. There are many different types of double strollers that are suitable for parents with more than one child. We tested tandem strollers with seats that face each other or side-by-side, so that children can interact and view each other while they are on the move. They also support infant car seat and standard child stroller seats. Many are built with high-low seating, which gives both kids a clear view of their surroundings.
Most of our tandem strollers fold easily and are small enough to fit into the trunk of your car, or in storage at home. However, some require you to remove the second seat in order to fold them (this is common for side-byside strollers) and this does reduce their overall storage capacity a bit. This is something to keep in mind when choosing your ideal model, as well as taking note of the dimensions of any doors you'll need to pass the stroller through.
In addition to a one-handed fold one-handed fold, 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 parent cup holders as well as onboard storage for snacks or other gear, and brakes that are easily accessible. They also have strong handlebars and easily accessible breaks. Many models are compatible with piggyback ride-along board attachments that allow older siblings and toddlers to have fun.
Look for used tandem strollers for sale online if you want to save money on the purchase. You can find second-hand double strollers for only a fraction of the cost of new models on online marketplaces like Facebook and Craigslist. Be sure to check the stroller for rust and loose screws and any recalls. It's worth the extra effort to find a fantastic deal on a stroller that will serve your family for years.