Buying a Tandem Double Stroller
A tandem double stroller can be lifesaver for parents who have to lug two kids around the city. They are strong enough to withstand the most difficult surfaces, and are comfortable for a toddler and an infant in the car seat.
Testers appreciate the ease of folding this stroller into a slim silhouette with one hand. It also comes with a huge amount of storage space onboard for kids and adults.
Adjustable Recline
This stroller is a great option if you're looking for an option that can grow with your family. It's an individual stroller, but can be equipped with a second seat, jump seat or stand-on board for older kids. It comes with an adjustable handlebar that lets even tall parents will find it easy to push and steer (and its rear suspension and three air-filled tires make running easy as well). The separate canopies are large with a good-sized peekaboo window and the seats recline nearly flat, though they do require two hands to put back up.
It can also be accessed through most doors, although it may be too big for certain trunks, based on the vehicle. Contrary to many tandem double strollers, which require lifting a canopy or seat to fold it, this one features a one-point fold that involves pulling a strap and then lifting. It also folds when folded, which is useful for storage and transport. It's buckles can be a bit difficult to fasten with the car seat attached.
The Graco DuoGlider makes a great option for families with two children, a toddler and an infant. It has a large storage basket, adjustable recline on both seats (although only the front seat reclines about half way) and a comfortable padding for the harnesses. In our tests, it was one of the most comfortable seats for adults and children, even for those over 6'. The only drawback is that its length could make it difficult to maneuver in tight spaces, or when carrying groceries and kids.
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 a second toddler seat which is sold separately. Both seats have a deep recline, a footrest that can be adjusted as well as a UPF 50+ canopy with large windows that peek out. The front seat can also be turned upside down to face the rear which allows older children to see each other better. It's only downside is that it's not able to fit two infant car seats simultaneously and therefore won't work for twins or siblings of a similar age.
UPF 50+ Canopy
If you don't want your kids to scream and whine all day long you should choose a stroller that has an umbrella that is large enough to fit both seats. The best tandem double strollers come with a UPF50+ canopy that extends far enough to provide real shade. They also have peekaboo windows for each seat. To make it easy to push you'll need big wheels and a good suspension. After testing 17 tandem strollers over 100 hours at the zoo and during stroller-enabled classes, completing errands and trick-or treating, we found side-by-side options such as the Chicco BravoFor2 or Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 Double Stroller performed better in terms of maneuverability compared to inline models. They were easier to maneuver and fit through doors that are standard than other models.
You'll need to think about whether the tandem stroller can accommodate your family's lifestyle as well as convenience and comfort features. If you're a frequent user of public transportation, or have to carry a lot of luggage and other gear and other items, then you should consider models that have an ample storage bin as well as a bumper bar that can be folded down under the stroller.
Another consideration is how long you plan to use the stroller. For most families, a high-quality double stroller can last from newborn to toddler years and possibly beyond. It's worth investing more upfront if you'll use the stroller for a few years at the very least.
If you're a frequent traveler you may want to look for a stroller that can fold flat or even with one foot. The top tandem double strollers can fold down in a matter of seconds, making them perfect for families on the go.
If you're thinking of adding a second child to your family, the style of stroller you select will have a major impact on your lifestyle and budget. If you're looking for a side by side or inline model, there are a lot of options to suit your requirements.
One-Point Fold
Expert stroller reviewers have one essential requirement to purchasing a tandem double stroller: It must be easy to fold and unfold. This is particularly important since tandem strollers are generally larger than single strollers, and may feel heavy when being carried. They also require more space in your car trunk than a single stroller would.
The top tandem double strollers feature one-point folds that are simple to use. A lot of them also have an automatic lock, which keeps the stroller from folding while open or in use. This is a great security feature, especially when you have children in the front seat.
If you're planning to use a tandem to transport your children in a car seat, it's best to select a model that's side-by-side rather than one that is reverse-able. Reversible strollers let you place your infant in front and your older child in back. However, it can be difficult to reach your child in the rear as the stroller moves.
Another factor to consider is the width of the tandem stroller. The majority of double strollers are bigger than single strollers and the width will determine the likelihood that it will pass through the doors of your home. Take measurements of your doorways' standard 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 seating options with stadium-style seats that are perfect for twins. It also accommodates the majority of infant carseats. It's loaded with great features like the ability to reversibly seat with footrests that can be adjusted, as well as zippered extensions on both canopies. double umbrella stroller 's also very affordable and has received rave reviews from parents. It's only flaw is that it doesn’t recline at the back. This could be a problem if your child is napping. It does have a large storage bin and a tray for parents which is covered and includes cup holders. This is a great option for families with children.
Easy Assembly
If you're surprised to learn that you're expecting twins, or had baby number two on the way as scheduled, now is the time to consider the best way to get from Point A to Point B with your little ones in the stroller. There are a variety of double strollers for parents with multiple children. We tested tandem strollers that feature either front-facing or side-byside seats so that kids can see each other and interact while cruising. They also support infant car seats and standard stroller seats. Many have high-low seating to give both children a complete view of their surroundings.
The majority of our tandem strollers fold easily and are small enough to fit into the trunk of your car or into your home storage. Some tandem strollers require you to remove the seat in order to fold them. This is typical for side by side strollers. However, this decreases their storage capacity overall. It is important to take this into consideration when selecting the best model. Also, make sure you check the dimensions of the doorways you will need to traverse the stroller.
A majority of our top tandems offer the ability to fold with one hand, as well as adjustable reclining in both seats and an enormous canopy to protect children from sun and wind. They also offer parent cup holders and storage onboard for snacks and equipment along with brakes that are easy to reach, and a sturdy bar that feels at ease to hold while pushing. Many models accommodate piggyback boards that let older siblings join in on the fun making them a good option for families growing with preschoolers and children in school.
Check out used tandem strollers for sale online for a chance to save money on your purchase. You can find a wide selection of used double strollers on marketplaces such as Facebook and Craigslist that can be purchased for a fraction of the price of the new models. Be sure to examine the stroller for loose and rusty screws and any recalls. It's worth the effort to find a great bargain on a stroller that will serve your family for many years.