Buying a Tandem Double Stroller
A tandem double stroller can be a lifesaver for parents who need to carry two children around the city. These strollers are sturdy enough to handle most surfaces, and comfortable for both a toddler and an infant in the car seat.
The fact that the stroller can fold into a slim profile using just one hand is a huge plus for testers. It offers plenty of storage space for both adults and children.
Adjustable Recline
This stroller is an excellent option if you're looking for a stroller that grows with your family. It can be set up as a single-seater model, and then it can be outfitted with a jump seat or stand-on boards to accommodate older children. It features an adjustable handlebar that lets even tall parents will find it easy to steer and push (and its rear suspension and three air-filled tires make jogging feel effortless as well). The canopies are large and feature a well-placed peekaboo window. The seats also recline almost flat. But, they do require two hands to get them back up.
It can also be accessed through most doors, though it might be too big for certain trunks, based on the vehicle. Contrary to many tandem double strollers that require lifting a seat or canopy to fold it, this one has one-point fold which requires pulling a strap and lifting. It can be folded and stored standing up. It's buckles can be a bit difficult to fasten when the car seat is attached.
The Graco DuoGlider is a solid option for families with a toddler and an infant. It has a huge storage basket, an adjustable recline on both seats (although only the front seat goes down to about halfway), and comfortable padding for the harnesses. It's the most comfortable car seat for adults and children alike, even for those who are over 6 feet tall. The only downside is that its length could make it a pain to maneuver around tight spaces or when juggling kids and groceries.
A top choice among tandem strollers with a budget that is the Baby Trend Sit N' Stand Double can be used from birth with the infant car seat adapter or with a second toddler seat, that is available separately. Both seats come with a wide recline, a footrest that can be adjusted, and a UPF 50+ canopy with large windows that peek out. The front seat can be flipped to face the rear which allows older children to see each other more clearly. The only downside is that it doesn't accommodate two infant car seats simultaneously and therefore isn't ideal for siblings or twins who are similar in age.
UPF 50+ Canopy
If you don't want your children to be screaming and whining all day long it is essential to have a stroller with canopy that is large enough to accommodate both seats. The most effective tandem strollers come with a UPF 50+ canopy that is large enough to offer real shade and even has a peekaboo window on each seat. To make double pram and pushchair to push, you also need large wheels and a sturdy suspension. After testing 17 tandem strollers for more than 100 hours at the zoo and during stroller-enabled classes, running 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 performed better in terms of maneuverability than inline models. They were more maneuverable and fit through doors that are standard than most other models.
In addition to the comfort, convenience features and user-friendliness, you'll also want to consider if the tandem stroller will be suitable for your family's lifestyle. If you're frequent users of public transportation, or have to carry a lot of luggage and gear, then look for models that have an ample storage bin as well as an adjustable bumper bar that can fold under the stroller.
Another factor to consider is how long you hope to use the stroller. A high-quality double stroller will last for most families from the time their baby is born until toddlerhood and beyond. It's worth spending more initially on a stroller you will use for at least several years.
If you are a frequent traveler you might want to select a model which can be folded flat, or even with one foot. The top tandem double strollers can be folded down in 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 choose will have a significant impact on your lifestyle and budget. Whether you want a side-by-side or an inline model, there are plenty of options to suit your needs.
One-Point Fold
Expert stroller reviewers have a essential requirement to buying a tandem double stroller: It must be easy to fold and unfold. This is particularly important because tandem strollers tend to be larger than single strollers and can feel heavy when being driven. They also take more space in your trunk than a single stroller.
The top tandem double strollers come with an easy one-point fold. Many tandem double strollers also include an automatic lock that stops the stroller folding while it is open or in use. This is a safety feature, especially when you have children in the front seat.
If you're planning to use a tandem system to transport your children in a car seat, it's best to opt for a model that's side-by-side, rather than one that is convertible. Reversible strollers let you place your infant in front of your older child behind. However, it may be difficult to reach your child from the rear while the stroller is moving.
Another thing to consider is the size of the tandem stroller. Double strollers tend to be larger than single strollers, and the width can affect the likelihood that it will pass through the doors of your home. Take measurements of your doorways' standard between 30 and 36 inches width prior to purchasing a tandem stroller.
If you're looking for a multi-functional stroller that works well with two car seats for infants look into the Contours Options Elite V2. This double stroller has seven different seating options that are ideal for twins and can also accommodate most infant car seats. It's loaded with great features, including reclined seating, adjustable footrests, and zip-up extensions on both canopies. It's also a great value and parents have left excellent reviews. It's only flaw is that it's not reclined at the back. This can be a problem when your child is napping. However, it does come with a large storage basket and a covered parent tray with cup holders. This is still a good option for families with children.
Easy Assembly
If you're shocked to discover that you're expecting twins or you had a second baby in the pipeline as planned, it's time to think about the best way to get from Point A to Point B with your children in tow. There are many different types of double strollers that are suitable for parents with multiple children. We tested tandem strollers that have seats facing each other or side-by-side so that children can interact and view each other while they move. Many tandem strollers work with infant car seats as well as standard child stroller chairs. They also feature high-low seating that lets both children view their surroundings.
Most of our tandem stroller picks 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 common with side-by-side strollers. However, this decreases the overall storage capacity. This is something to keep in mind when choosing your ideal model, and also taking note of the dimensions of any doorways that you'll have to take the stroller through.
In addition to a one-handed fold, many of our top tandem choices also offer adjustable reclining for both seats, as well as a spacious canopy to shield your children from the elements of sun and wind. They also have cup holders and onboard storage for food and other gear as well as brakes that are easy to reach and a sturdy handlebar that feels at ease to hold while pushing. Many models can be used with piggyback ride-along board attachments that allow older siblings and toddlers to have fun.
Find used tandem strollers on the internet if you want to save money on the purchase. There are used double strollers at a fraction the price of new models on marketplaces such as Facebook and Craigslist. Make sure to check for rust, loose screws and research any recalls that might be in place prior to purchasing. It's worth the extra effort to find a great bargain on a stroller which will last for years.