If you’re shopping for a triple stroller, here are some models to consider. Be prepared—triple strollers are pricey and oversized. While many double strollers offer streamlined and lightweight profiles, a stroller for three children is almost universally bulky and heavy. If you’re only planning to use the stroller on occasion, purchasing a double stroller and a baby backpack, or a double stroller and single stroller may streamline your life. But if you have triplets, or twins with a single close in age, the ease of a triple stroller will be well worth the bulk.
The Secondary Market for Triplet Strollers
Because of the high cost of triple strollers, they are very popular on the secondary market. Many are passed from family to family for several generations of multiples. At the end of the list, you will find four models that are no longer being manufactured but may be available second-hand. This can be valuable information that saves you a little money on your stroller. Whether you find a secondhand stroller on Craigslist, eBay, or a garage sale in your neighborhood, do a careful inspection. Before buying, take a moment to check for any government recalls or product safety reports on the model you are considering. It’s important to know that you must purchase three of the Peg Perego branded Primo Viaggio infant car seats or adapters to use with a selection of other brands. Seats may be positioned forward or in reverse. Two seats can also be facing each other and offer adjustable recline and footrests. A unique steering wheel on the handlebar purportedly provides an ease of handling not found in other models, but an even better feature is the adjustable handlebar that accommodates pushers of varying heights. At a whopping 60 pounds, this is a heavy-duty product, with a heavy price tag to match. It measures 58,5 inches long and 21 inches wide when open and weighs 34 pounds. Seats recline, although not equally as the front seat only reclines slightly and does not lay flat. A large basket under the seats is available for storage. The two front seats can accommodate an infant carrier car seat to function as a travel system, but the third seat can only be used for older children. The company recommends that the third passenger be at least 2 1/2 years old to ride standing up, but there is a padded seat where a younger child can ride sitting down. At only 34 pounds, it is a lightweight in the triple stroller category. It can accommodate children up to 40 pounds in the front and middle seats and 45 pounds in the rear seat. Runabout strollers are available in seat configurations from one to six and have earned acclaim for their high-quality construction, extreme durability, and excellent resale value. Adjustable, reclining seats accommodate infants and toddlers from 10 pounds to 60 pounds. The streamlined design maneuvers easily through narrow doorways or rugged trails. Made to last, they enjoy great popularity in the secondary market and are often passed from one family to another. With swivel wheels, it is quite maneuverable but stretches 43 inches across when open. However, it compacts to 41 inches long, 17 inches wide, and 15 inches high when folded. This stroller offers a lot of flexibility, accommodating newborns and toddlers, although not necessarily at the same time. The rear seats function like a double stroller to hold children from newborn through toddlers, but the additional seat is only recommended for children over a year old. One solution recommended by parents of triplets is the Valco Baby Twin Tri-Mode stroller with the additional toddler seat accessory. This would only be feasible for older babies who are able to sit in such a seat, but it is definitely an option worth exploring. Baby Jogger strollers appeal to active families. While the Q-Series is designed for use during exercise or in the great outdoors, many of its features make it an effective stroller for everyday use. Its simple set-up and fold-down configuration establish it as one of the most portable triple strollers. Padded cushioning, individual reclining seats, ventilation and a sun canopy ensure a comfortable ride, even on long journeys. At the same time, many parents appreciate Baby Jogger’s reputation as a company committed to safety and quality. The Domino Trio is a tandem (inline) stroller with three seats that can be positioned backward-facing (for infants) or forward-facing (for older babies). The frame accommodates either bassinette (carriage-style) or carrier-style seats, however, you cannot recline all three of the seats at the same time. Weighing more than 30 pounds, it is large and bulky; one of the seats must be removed in order to fold the frame. However, Inglesina is known for high-quality products with impeccable safety standards. While this hefty stroller commands a hefty price, the secondhand market for this product is lucrative. Invented by parents of multiples, Double Decker strollers utilize a lightweight frame (22 pounds) in conjunction with convenient infant carrier-style car seats from Evenflo and Graco to produce a compact, inline stroller with stadium (stacked) seats. The triple stroller can accommodate 100 pounds of combined child weight, and the life of the stroller can be extended with the addition of toddler seats for older children. New Zealand manufacturer, Mountain Buggy, presents a side-by-side jogging stroller intended for rugged terrain. The Urban Triple can be used for walking or jogging, with air-filled tires that can be locked in place for a smoother ride during off-road expeditions. Three padded seats are individually adjustable and recline completely. The Urban Triple is compatible with all of Mountain Buggy’s convenient customizable options, like car seat adapters, bassinets, and carriers. One study found that 80 percent of stroller injuries occurred in babies between the age of birth and 12 months. Another study found that 76 percent of injuries were due to falls from the stroller. Clearly, “fall-proofing” babies when in a stroller is paramount. Stroller Safety Tips In addition to checking for recalls and safety issues, a few tips can help ensure your babies are as safe as possible. Considering these tips may also help you as you choose between the strollers now available.
Never leave your children unattended, even for a moment.Make sure the brakes are easy for you to reach, and difficult for your children to reach.Use the seat belt and harnesses at all times, even if you are going only a short distance.Stay alert. Cars and strollers don’t mix.Make sure the stroller doesn’t get too hot. Hot metal or plastic could potentially burn your child. (Be extra careful when carrying the stroller in your car during hot summer months).Always store bags, toys, and other cargo securely in the spaces provided.Fold the stroller carefully as per directions. Keep tiny fingers and toes away when you do so.
Having a triple stroller is a great way to get out and about when you have triplets or a pair and a spare. There are many options to choose from while considering your lifestyle and the needs of your family. Following a few safety tips can keep your babies as safe as possible, and reduce your own worry as a parent.
