“Double strollers can be a great option for parents of twins, but they are also incredibly useful when you’re toting around a baby and an older toddler simultaneously,” Oregon-based pediatrician and member of Buybuy BABY’s Parenting Pros, Whitney Casares, MD, MPH, FAAP, tells Verywell Family. “Many provide more storage capacity than traditional strollers and can be converted from a single to double when needed.” When shopping for a double stroller, consider the different styles, such as inline/tandem or side-by-side, as well as your family’s lifestyle, safety features, ease of maneuverability, design, and value for the price. In the lab we looked at those factors, while also examining each stroller’s sun canopies, harnesses, recline options, storage space, ease of folding, size, snack trays, footrests, brakes, and handlebars. When testing double strollers, we weighed the pros against the cons to narrow down our list to the best options for families. Based on our testing, here are the best double strollers. The City Tour 2 Double weighs only 23 pounds and folds to create a compact size parents and caregivers will appreciate while traveling. “Once you get the hang of it, folding this stroller is pretty seamless,” our tester said. “There’s no chance of getting your fingers caught in anything.” Our tester noted that it could be folded in one step and carried with the easy-to-find handles. Plus, it automatically locks when folded for extra stability. The design of this stroller had a lot to please grownups and kids. Both seats recline independently and have adjustable calf rests. Plus, the buckle was easy to use and didn’t get stuck. Our tester noticed that the two features create the ultimate on-the-go nap space, as both seats can lie almost entirely flat. The UPF 50+ expandable canopies were large and featured a Velcro peek-a-boo window for airflow and visibility. Our tester said the peek-a-boo windows stayed open using the attached elastic piece, which is a nice touch for parents and caregivers who want to keep an eye on kids while they walk. But our tester encountered a couple of minor issues: The storage basket, which has a weight limit of 15 pounds, was not ideal for a diaper bag because of a vertical bar that runs through the middle, limiting the space to smaller items. Additionally, the stroller does not come with snack trays or cupholders for kids and adults, which can be a pro or con, depending on your family’s lifestyle. We tested the double stroller’s maneuverability in the lab by rolling it across various terrains, like hard floors, grass-like turf, and carpet. The stroller provided a smooth and easy ride over different landscapes and made tight turns around cones and corners without issues. “It fits easily through a 33-inch doorway, though the seats are pretty narrow as a result,” said our tester, ranking it 5 out of 5 stars for this attribute. While the stroller’s overall maneuverability was excellent, our 5’11” tester noticed an issue for tall parents and caregivers during testing. Due to her long stride, her toes and shins came close to the parking brake bar on the frame between the wheels, which was an issue when walking briskly (but not a problem when walking more slowly). While the biggest downside to the Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Double is the lack of storage space, the double stroller comes in at a good value. Plus, there are several add-ons you can purchase later, like the car seat adapter, so you can use the stroller from birth, and a glider board for a third child to stand on and enjoy the ride. Price at time of publication: $450 “The stroller is very easy to push around, and it just feels absolutely solid,” one tester noted during the maneuverability test. We pushed the stroller through the lab’s obstacle course, which consisted of various terrains, stairs, and a curb. “The front wheels locked out once they turned out instead of turning around,” remarked our tester when taking the stroller backward upstairs. While that aspect was a challenge, the stroller navigated the rest with ease. The Vista V2 also folds in one step and stays upright for ultimate portability and storage purposes. This is the most expensive stroller we tested, but with its top-notch features, style, and maneuverability, it will likely be the only stroller your family needs. “If you can afford it, and if you plan on using it for a lengthy period of time on a daily basis, I would absolutely recommend it,” our tester said. Plus, you can use it immediately after birth, using the included bassinet or Uppababy Mesa infant car seat. There’s also the option to attach a second bassinet or second rumble seat, but the adapters are sold separately. We also love the option for a third child to ride using the ride-along board (sold separately). Price at time of publication: $1,100 Our tester praised the design of the G-Link 2, noting how sturdy the stroller felt, largely thanks to the vertical aluminum bars on the frame and four sets of wheels that provided additional support and security. Our tester noted that kiddos stay secure and comfortable during any ride with 5-point harnesses that adjust to three different heights easily, even with littles (or weighted bags) in tow. “Shoulder straps attach to the waist straps, so you only need to worry about one component when buckling,” our tester said, adding both seats recline to about 30 degrees if littles need a nap. The UPF 50+ canopies are large and have small sun shades that extend beyond the canopies to protect children from the sun. There’s also space for two parent cup holders; both are removable if you only need to use one. For storage, you’ll find two separate baskets with a 10-pound weight limit. “They’re spacious but not very wide, so you can’t put a diaper bag underneath unless you can squeeze it, but you could put a few individual diapers and baby wipes,” our tester said. When the storage baskets are full, adults will appreciate the pockets conveniently located behind the seats to store small items, like phones and keys. To fold this stroller, press a button and lift the handle slightly. According to our tester, she had to use a little muscle when folding, as it doesn’t collapse on its own. However, a latch clip automatically locked everything in place for security, earning this a healthy 4.8 out of 5 stars for its ease of folding. While the Uppababy G-Link 2 is pricier than your average umbrella stroller, its sturdy design and smooth maneuverability scored 5 out of 5 stars, and it could be the only stroller a family needs. Price at time of publication: $350 There were highs and lows to the stroller’s maneuverability, according to our tester, who pushed the stroller through the obstacle course, up and down stairs, and over a curb. “With 25 pounds in each seat, this was a breeze. With 50 pounds in each seat, it was much more of a struggle,” said our tester. On uneven surfaces, the stroller felt a little bumpy, but it maneuvered smoothly on level ground, which resulted in 4 out of 5 stars for maneuverability. And at 30 inches wide, the side-by-side double stroller just barely squeezed through doorways. Joovy markets this stroller’s one-handed fold (trays included) and compact size, and that all proved true during testing. Our tester said it was relatively easy to fold, even with one hand, but found it tricky to carry once folded, so they docked half a point for the stroller’s ease of folding. While the Kooper X2 has a higher price tag than some competitors, it still earned 4 out of 5 stars for its overall value, particularly its functional design and ease of operation. Price at time of publication: $460 This stroller was a dream to assemble and earned 5 out of 5 stars for that attribute. “I loved the way that things also snapped in place and made a loud click so that you knew it was secure,” a tester noted after the less than five-minute assembly. However, our tester docked a point for the box’s heavy weight, which required assistance from a second person in the lab. In addition to the Evenflo Gold Pivot Xpand stroller, the travel system also comes with the SecureMax Instant Car Seat, which features a safety clip that alerts you via your phone of potentially serious situations, like an unattended child or accidental unbuckling. Once a child outgrows the car seat, you can replace it with a second toddler seat (sold separately). The stroller’s bright colors stood out in the lab, along with its full recline options and adjustable footrests for naps on the go. The buckles and clips on the five-point harnesses were easy to use, and the vast storage space under the seats easily fit items. Each seat on the double stroller includes two adjustable canopies to block the sun at any time of day. As for the downsides of the stroller’s design, our testers noticed minor problems with the bumper bar and handle. Removal of the bumper bar may be necessary to put some children in the stroller, while the stroller’s handle sometimes felt wobbly. Aside from minor problems, the Gold Pivot Xpand shined during the maneuverability test. The stroller turned smoothly through the obstacle course cones and corners thanks to a front swivel wheel and rear-wheel suspension. One tester found it easier to push the stroller when both seats faced forward than in other configurations, but it was still great to push overall. “It goes over the bump with no problems and not a lot of resistance. You don’t have to force it over,” our tester said. This travel system has 22 possible configurations for one child or two, so it easily earned 5 out of 5 stars for value. Price at time of publication: $600 While the double stroller earned 5 out of 5 stars for its easy assembly, it lost some momentum in the design category. Each seat has a snack tray with two cupholders and a space in the middle for snacks, but the cupholders were shallow and bottles nearly fell onto the lab floor when it was in motion. There’s also a cupholder for grown-ups and a covered compartment that’s the perfect size for keys (but too small for a phone) on the stroller’s comfy foam handle. Our tester observed that the cargo space beneath the seats is large if you need to store big items. Both seats recline to multiple positions using a lever on the back, and they feature adjustable canopies and footrests for a comfortable ride. Our tester strapped in two weighted bags using the stroller’s three-point harnesses, observing that the “buckles are easy to adjust and don’t seem too pinchy.” Despite the double stroller’s locking front swivel wheel and suspension, it was just average in maneuverability. The stroller drove smoothly but couldn’t make sharp turns with the weighted bags (80 pounds total) strapped in, and the tester struggled to navigate the curb. Our tester said they had to “pop a small wheelie” and use their strength because the stroller felt heavy. However, the tandem double stroller was narrow enough to glide through the lab’s 33-inch doorway. Folding the stroller was super easy, and it could stand when folded by securing a latch. However, our tester took a point off due to the confusing folding instructions that contained only pictures and no words. As for the overall value of the Graco DuoGlider, it earned 5 out of 5 stars because it won’t blow your budget and has useful features for children. Price at time of publication: $190 Our tester didn’t even need both hands to maneuver the jogging double stroller during the running test outdoors. “It glides easily over rough terrain and feels like it solidly grips the ground while running on flat ground,” said one of our testers. While you need to read instructions and can’t fold the stroller with one hand, the actual folding of the stroller was easy. Its folded size isn’t too big for a car’s trunk either. The BOB Gear Revolution Flex 3.0 Duallie has a steep price tag, but if you’re looking for durability, functionality, and a safe spot for kids to ride while you run, the stroller is worth it. Price at time of publication: $800 First, it was easy to put together because the seats arrived entirely built. As a jogging stroller, the front wheels required using the included tools, like an Allen wrench, while the tires required inflation using the included pump. There were struggles with the bumper bars, which were somewhat challenging to figure out in terms of alignment, according to our tester, scoring the stroller’s assembly 4 out of 5 stars. This double stroller earned a perfect design score for more than an eye-catching color. The stroller was made with comfort and security in mind, from its cushioned bumper bars to padding on the seat, straps, and crotch area. We also liked the five-point harnesses that were easy to thread and buckle. If kids want to nap, the seats recline completely and feature an easy-to-use button to keep seats flat. While there are no cupholders or snack trays, pockets on the back of the seats and the large storage space below are ideal alternatives. Each child gets their own UPF 45+ canopy to stay dry and cool, and there’s even a little mesh window in the canopies that opens and closes via a magnet. Durable air-filled tires and a great suspension earned this double jogging stroller a nearly perfect score for its maneuverability. Despite no padding on the handle, it still provided a good grip around the obstacle course. According to our tester, the double stroller was a bit bulky and difficult to pull up the stairs, but took turns easily and navigated smoothly over various terrains. “The brake takes some pressure to engage and disengage,” our tester observed. The stroller’s quick, compact fold impressed, too, scoring 5 out of 5 stars. Simply fold the bumper bars down and engage the brake before lifting two levers on the side of the stroller. “It gets quite compact for a jogging stroller, and it’s light enough to lift and put into a trunk,” our tester noted. The Bumbleride Indie isn’t ideal for families on a budget and is more of a splurge item. However, it’s worth the price if you can use it for exercising, getting to school, and running errands. Price at time of publication: $900 While the stroller was off to a great start right out of the box, the design was average and earned 3.5 out of 5 stars. On the plus side: Both seats hold up to 40 pounds each and recline with adjustable calf rests to create a cozy napping experience. The bumper bars swing open on one side for easy accessibility. And each rider gets their own extendable UPF canopy to protect from the sun or rain and peek-a-boo windows for visibility. Our tester wasn’t a fan of the fact that the peek-a-boo windows were plastic instead of a breathable mesh, and she also would have preferred if there were some way to hold the peekaboo flap open. But here’s where this Jeep fell short: On one seat the strap that controls the reclining mechanism was threaded wrong, so the seat was stuck in one position. If this were a real-world scenario, we would have either brought the stroller back to a store or contacted the manufacturer for a replacement part, making it a hassle, but one with an obvious solution. Despite that setback, the Destination Ultralight scored 5 out of 5 stars for its dreamy maneuverability, seamless folding, and affordable price tag. The side-by-side double stroller maneuvered beautifully around cones and corners, various terrains, and stairs (where we had to make sure that the front wheels were unlocked). While it’s slightly wider than other double strollers we tested, it fit through the lab’s 33-inch doorway. “I was honestly very surprised and impressed at how well it went up and down a short flight of stairs,” said our tester, who added that detail is one of the best features of the stroller. We also loved the minimal effort needed to engage the parking brake. According to our tester, folding and unfolding the stroller was seamless each time. The carrying strap is a nice touch to give parents and caregivers a hand, but our tester noted the 28-pound stroller is not ideal for carrying around for long periods. Given the whole package, our tester said, “I still think that for the price, it’s a great stroller. It feels like a much more expensive stroller.” Price at time of publication: $300 The stroller had a rough start with assembly that took our tester 38 minutes, which is why it earned 3 out of 5 stars for setup. “It was confusing with multiple washers and pins needed for attaching the rear wheels. There is a complete instruction booklet and a separate fold-out diagram,” said our tester, who thought that assembly would be better as a two-person job. The stroller’s tandem design allows children to sit or stand, which is ideal for a young child and older sibling but results in it feeling longer than the average double stroller. Instead of stadium-style, with the rear seat higher than the front, the stroller’s seats sit at the same level. “That means the child in the back won’t be able to see over the head of the child in the front,” our tester observed, adding that could cause problems during exciting events, like a trip to the zoo or parade. On the plus side, both seats recline to three different positions for a comfy ride. Only the child in front gets a snack tray and cup holder, and the back child’s feet hang into the storage compartment below. However, this may not be an issue if you have a baby and toddler, as one of the seats is replaceable with an infant car seat using the included adapter. The storage compartment isn’t large enough to accommodate a diaper bag, so you’d have to hang items on the handle. There is a convenient parent organizer to hold an iced coffee, baby bottle, cell phone, or other small items and a zipper pocket for stashing money or a credit card. Unfortunately, the UPF canopy wasn’t a big hit with our tester, who said the shade “only covers the top of the child’s head and doesn’t give any side coverage.” The Joovy Caboose Too Ultralight, lives up to its name, weighing only 22 pounds. That helped it glide over the various terrains in the lab, but it was challenging to push over the curb with weighted bags, scoring 4 out of 5 stars for maneuverability. The stroller made up for its lower points by passing with flying colors for its easy folding and overall value. According to our tester, folding was easy if you followed the directions and locked both the front and back wheels first. For a stroller you can use with an infant and older sibling and continue to use with a toddler and preschooler, the price is low compared to its counterparts. Price at time of publication: $320 The fabric, which somewhat resembles a nice tweed suit, is pleasing to the eye, and the seats, shoulder straps, and crotch have decent padding for comfort. If one (or both) kids want to take a nap, simply adjust the seats and footrests to recline completely. The seats are interchangeable with infant car seats and transform into multiple configurations, so they can face their adult, the world, or each other. Unlike with smaller tandem strollers, the back seat has more than enough room for a taller child’s legs. Beneath the seats is a spacious storage compartment, so our tester could fit both a diaper bag and a backpack. The five-point harness must be rethreaded to adjust the height, but it wasn’t too difficult to do. “The buckle is easy to click in two parts, but not so easy that a kid could escape,” according to our tester. You’ll want to keep in mind that there are no places for snacks and drinks for the grown-up or kids (unless you use the generous storage space). Both kids can enjoy the stroller’s large canopies, which unzip and almost completely cover each child. There’s a small peek-a-boo window on top of the canopies, however, the plastic material prevented extra airflow. Overall, the Italian-made double stroller scored 5 out of 5 stars for its stunning style. Despite the stroller’s high marks for design, it encountered a few difficulties during the maneuverability test. According to our tester, the double stroller couldn’t make any sharp turns and barely made it up the stairs because it was heavy and long. The stroller was easy to push thanks to the ball bearings and suspension, and it navigated over the curb and grass terrain with no problem. Like the other strollers on our list, it easily went through the 33-inch doorway, earning 3.5 out of 5 stars for its overall design. The stroller easily folded down with the push of two buttons on the side. Yet, a downside to the stroller is its large size, even when folded, which measures 44.5 x 15.75 inches. “Folded, it would still have to be in a garage or something, because it’s too heavy and big to put anywhere else,” said our tester, who did give the Duette a perfect score for folding. As for the overall value, the Peg Perego earned 3 out of 5 stars. For some, the stylish, spacious design would compensate for its bulk and price, but not for others. Price at time of publication: $800 This stroller had a great start in our lab. Assembly was easy and intuitive and took about five minutes, according to our tester, who only had to snap in the wheels and snack trays. While it earned 5 out of 5 stars for its initial assembly, when our testers tried to attach the standing platform, it took two people and help from YouTube. There aren’t many extra design features on this stroller, but we did like that they include a snack tray that’s easy to remove, and a few different configurations that will work for kids of varying ages. On the down side, the seats did not recline very much, and the cargo area is difficult to access when there’s a child in the back seat. Thanks to the stroller’s tandem design, it fit through the 33-inch doorway easily. “It can turn pretty well, but because it’s so long and narrow, it can feel a little bit hard to control,” said our tester. Sharp turns fine, but we don’t recommend using it in tight spaces. On the bright side, we liked the stroller’s quick, one-handed fold, and given its multiple configurations, it’s a pretty great deal. Price at time of publication: $200
Testers unpacked and assembled the double strollers right out of the box and in the lab. We asked them to make notes about any tools needed, challenges they faced, and whether they needed help at any time. We also had testers try to put together the strollers without instructions to determine whether or not assembly was intuitive. While some strollers simply snapped into place, others took 30 minutes or more and required extra tools and/or online instruction videos. We placed “babies” (weighted sand bags) into the seats for the design test to determine how difficult it was to buckle children in using the strollers’ harnesses. For convertible strollers, we asked testers to consider the ease of adding the second seat. Testers placed a full diaper bag, sometimes two if there was room, in each stroller to test the storage space. They also looked at other features, like snack trays, cup holders, removable bumper bars, and adjustable handlebars. While some of these features are more subjective, we considered what we would want when traveling with our families, such as sun-protection canopies and parent organizers. Testers pushed the double strollers through our indoor obstacle course and over various terrains, such as turf-like grass and hardwood flooring. They also took the strollers up and down stairs while checking the brakes to ensure they worked and felt easy to access. Finally, we carefully considered all other attributes in comparison with the price of each stroller to assess their overall value.
Double Strollers We Also Tested
Graco Ready2Grow LX 2.0 Double Stroller: While the stroller offered a large storage basket for goodies, it was a beast to assemble and did not impress during the maneuverability test. Zoe the Twin+ Double Stroller: We loved this stroller’s one-step fold, but it struggled to maneuver over the curb and navigate the stairs. The brake system didn’t make sense to us, nor did the fact that it’s priced as high as some of our favorite strollers.
What to Look for When Buying a Double Stroller
Styles
Before you pick a double stroller, you’ll want to consider the different styles available. “Double strollers come in wagon, side-by-side, and tandem styles,” Dr. Casares explains. “Specialized versions allow for jogging, or can even feature removable, coordinating bassinets.” Both tandem (inline) and side-by-side styles have their pros and cons, so which one is right for you depends on your family’s needs. Inline strollers, meaning one seat sits in front of the higher at a higher angle, like the Baby Trend Sit and Stand Double Stroller, fit through most doorways and accommodate most car seats. However, they’re also longer than an average single or side-by-side stroller. Accessing the child in front can be more difficult while pushing the stroller, too. For side-by-side strollers (both seats sit next to each other), it’s important to note that the footrest should extend across both seating areas to prevent a child’s foot from becoming trapped between separate footrests. Depending on the stroller and your car seat’s compatibility or weight limit, some children may not be able to ride safely in these without adapters or other accessories. But side-by-side strollers give you easy access to both riders, making them great for twins or children close in age.
Safety Features
Always keep safety at the forefront when buying for kids. Consider your child’s age, weight, and development to provide children with a safe ride. Opt for a stroller with reclining seats to create a safe napping space, or pop in their infant car seat if they cannot sit up independently. Check for a three- or five-point harness to keep kids secure during any ride. Moreover, you never want your child to ride in a stroller if they exceed (or don’t meet) the weight limit, as that may affect how the stroller maneuvers.
Design and Size
Beyond the look of a stroller, there are several design elements of double strollers that can make things more comfortable and convenient for both kids and adults. For example, consider the size of the stroller, both unfolded and folded, to ensure it fits through doorways or the trunk of your car. Also, check out the size of the storage compartment, which is typically located beneath the seats, to determine what will and will not fit. If items cannot fit, look for another spot on the stroller to store important items. Other features you’ll want to be on the lookout for are sun canopies, peekaboo windows, snack trays, and reclining seats. Moreover, opt for a double stroller that’s easy to maneuver to prevent stressful outings. The size of the stroller is important to consider, as not all double strollers will fit through doorways or the trunk of a car. And while double strollers are typically heavier than a single stroller, you don’t want one that’s too heavy to carry from the house to the car (or upstairs).
Lifestyle
Consider where and how you will use the stroller most often. “When you purchase a double stroller, look for options that are easy to store, that will fit your needs over the long term, and that will grow with your family,” Dr. Casares says. If you’re a family who travels often, you will want a compact stroller that doesn’t sacrifice much-needed features like storage space and cup holders. Some double strollers even feature a riding spot for a third child, such as the Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Double Stroller (also our top pick), which is perfect for larger families. Others may find the two seats just enough for their needs.
Why Trust Verywell Family
Katrina Cossey is a commerce writer for Verywell Family with nearly eight years of experience. Katrina’s background in journalism began at an Emmy Award-winning news station in Oklahoma before she obtained her B.A. in professional media. Her love for service journalism, helping others, and being a mom led to her commerce writing role, which allows her to research and recommend the best products for families, pregnant people, and kids of all ages. You’ll likely find her outdoors with her husband and their thrill-seeking toddler son when she’s not writing and researching.
