When there are multiple little ones in the picture, a double stroller can be a lifesaver for parents and caregivers who want to stay active. When choosing the best double stroller, there are several things to consider and many characteristics to look for. The right double stroller can be a parent’s key to traveling, shopping, or enjoying the great outdoors.
Why Should I Get a Double Stroller?
Double strollers can change the way parents travel; they can unlock more freedom and, therefore, more experiences for families. You won’t have to worry about little ones running off or getting lost, and you can take your family out with confidence! Three reasons you might benefit from a double stroller are:
- You have different-aged children
- You’re sharing other families
- You have twins
Double Strollers for Older and Younger Siblings
The transition to two children is an exciting and anticipated aspect of one’s parenting journey, but it can also come with a fair amount of chaos. Keeping your toddler safe while caring for a newborn when out and about is tricky, but a double stroller is a perfect solution.
Not only can a double stroller help wrangle your toddler when things get crazy, but it can also be a place for them to rest and nap if they get tired out on your outing. Toddlers and small children crave independence, but ultimately, they also need a little help. This is where the double stroller comes in! Right when your toddler starts to get fussy from exhaustion, you can swoop in with your double stroller and save the day.
Double strollers for children of different ages can also help with sibling bonding. Sitting in the same or similar situations may help toddlers with jealousy – their little sibling isn’t getting any sort of special treatment, and they are both getting the same attention from their parents.
Convenience for Friends and Families
If you share caregiving duties with anyone or if you’re traveling with extended family and friends with children, a double stroller is an excellent investment. For example, grandparents love hanging out with all their grandchildren at once, but it can be exhausting! Having a double stroller on deck ensures that all the cousins have the opportunity to rest and ride along without someone having to carry them.
Nanny-sharing is another great reason to grab a double stroller. A nanny-share is a system often used by people in the same community that utilizes one nanny for the care of multiple children from different families. These nannies will have a few little ones at a time, so a double stroller is a great way to make their lives easier and keep everyone safe. A compact double stroller is great for these on-the-go situations because they’re easy to break down and store!
How Do Twin Strollers Help Parents of Multiples?
Finding the right twin stroller might be the difference in whether or not you can successfully travel with your twins, especially if you’re without support during the day. Not only do they provide a secure and comfortable place for both babies, but they often come with lots of storage space for diapers, snacks, and other essentials.
Most people find that the best twin strollers are ones that come with identical parts and pieces for each child. This way, you never have to worry about which piece of your twin stroller goes with which child.
The 3 most important factors for finding the best twin stroller are:
- Safety
- Comfort
- Travel ability
Ensuring Safety with Your Twin Stroller
When choosing a twin stroller, one of the most important considerations is safety. Look for a twin stroller with a sturdy frame, secure harness systems, and locking breaks. Some twin strollers also have adjustable canopies or sunshades, which help to protect your little ones from excessive wind, rain, or sun.
Other important safety considerations should be noted, like weight capacity. Ideally, twin strollers should be designed to hold more weight, but double-check with the combined weight of your babies to make sure! Additionally, read all instructions on how to properly secure your children. Harnesses should fit snugly but not too tight.
Finally, always make sure you follow the manufacturer’s directions for assembly and storage of your twin stroller. Inspect all parts to make sure they’re in good condition, including the brakes and wheels. Always use brakes when stationary, and avoid slippery or uneven terrain!
Finding Comfort in Twin Strollers
Comfort is key when looking for a twin stroller. Taking care of twins is a huge challenge, so having a comfortable, efficient twin stroller is imperative to keep your travels flowing smoothly. Look for twin strollers that have adjustable seats or reclining features, which will accommodate growing children.
Some twin strollers also have adjustable foot and leg rests, which provide additional comfort and support. Think about parental comfort, too! Be on the lookout for twin strollers with adjustable handlebars for different parental heights. With the proper adjustment options, your twin stroller should last well into your babies’ childhood.
Twin Strollers Help Twin Babies Bond
Another huge benefit of getting a great twin stroller for your babies is the bonding that can occur between the pair. Twins are often very dependent on one another for the first few years of their life, if not longer. They don’t like to be without each other! Twin strollers keep them close and ensure they always have the comfort of their counterpart.
Twin Stroller Travel Systems
Finally, one of the most important considerations for convenience with your twin stroller is having compatible car seats. Getting in and out of the car with twins is an incredible feat, so having a twin stroller with a whole travel system will save your day -- and your back! Before purchasing, compare different double strollers with car seat options. Our favorite twin stroller travel system is this MESA V2 and VISTA V2 combination from UPPAbaby.
Side-By-Side Double Stroller Vs. Tandem Double Stroller
When choosing a double stroller, one of the very first decisions you’ll have to make is whether to go with a side-by-side double stroller or a tandem stroller. Tandem strollers are designed with one seat in front of the other, while side-by-side double strollers have two seats that sit right next to each other.
Tandem strollers tend to be narrower than side-by-side double strollers, which can make them a better choice for parents who live in urban areas or who have to navigate tight spaces elsewhere. Tandem strollers are also typically easier to maneuver, especially when you need to make tight turns or venture through crowded areas.
On the other hand, side-by-side double strollers typically allow children a bit more wiggle room, which can be especially helpful for kids that are growing faster than you can keep up with! Side-by-side strollers can also be a bit more stable and less likely to tip over, which is a great safety consideration for energetic little ones. Ultimately, the choice between a side-by-side and a tandem stroller is yours to make!
Accessories for Double Strollers
Stroller accessories are a great way to customize your double stroller and make it more convenient and comfortable for you and your kids. From weather protection to storage solutions, there are a variety of accessories available to fit your needs.
Our 5 Favorite Stroller Accessories:
- Organizer
- Stroller fan
- Weather shields
- Stroller board
- Comfort accessories
Organizing Your Double Stroller
A stroller organizer is a must-have accessory for any parent who uses a stroller regularly. These accessories attach to the handlebar or back of the stroller and provide easy access to your essentials, like your phone, keys, and wallet. A double stroller organizer eliminates the need to carry a purse or personal bag and helps keep your hands free, hopefully making it easier to navigate crowded spaces or handle other tasks.
Our favorite stroller organizer set is this UPPAbaby Ridge Parent Console Set. It comes with the parent organizer as well as a snack tray and cup holder for easy self-feeding. You can make sure your things and your baby’s eating essentials are well within reach. The organizer is also great for toys, so playtime can happen wherever you are!
Keeping Cool with a Stroller Fan
A stroller fan is a great accessory for those who live in hot climates or who enjoy spending lots of time outside with their little ones. This accessory usually clips onto the double stroller or can be put in a cup holder. It provides a gentle breeze to keep you and your baby comfortable. Some stroller fans are rechargeable, while others are battery-operated. Most come with adjustable speed settings to keep your airflow just right!
This fan from Veer has an extra-special feature: it sprays a cooling mist on you and your child! On hot summer days at the beach or strolling around a humid amusement park, this fan will be a lifesaver.
Canopies and Weather Protection
Stroller weather shields are great for parents who live in areas with unpredictable weather or who just don’t want a little drizzle to ruin their fun! This stroller accessory provides protection from rain and wind, keeping your baby dry and comfortable while out and about. Many weather shields, like this UPPAbaby Ridge Rain Shield, are designed to fit specific stroller models. Some even have extra features like UV protection to ward off sunburn!
Another type of canopy available for your double stroller is a mosquito net. Gone are the days of enjoying a summer evening out only to come home to bug bites all over your baby. A good bug shield will make all the difference in your summer adventures!
Stroller Board for Extra Kids
Did you know there’s actually a very easy way to turn your double stroller into a triple stroller? With a stroller board, it’s possible! A stroller board is a great accessory for parents who have an older child in addition to their young little ones.
A stroller board, like this UPPAbaby Ridge Piggyback, attaches to the back of the stroller and provides a platform for the older child to stand on while the baby is in the stroller. A stroller board is a great way to keep all children safe and close while strolling around, and many boards are designed to fit a variety of models!
Staying Comfortable in Your Double Stroller
Some of our favorite accessories available for strollers have to do with your child’s comfort. If they aren’t comfortable, they won’t stay put (and happy) for long! Always consider your child’s size and how fast they’re growing to ensure your stroller will grow with your family. Additionally, think about cushions and temperature protections to have the best, most comfortable result!
Two of our favorite comfort accessories are this Infant SnugSeat and this extra cozy cold weather cover from UPPAbaby. The SnugSeat helps ensure the best, most comfortable, and safest fit for your little one in their stroller. The cold weather cover speaks for itself: it provides all the warm fuzzies needed for cold winter outings!
Shopping for Stroller Accessories
There are just a few things to keep in mind as you peruse all your options for double stroller accessories. First, make sure the accessory is compatible with your stroller model. Many accessories are designed to fit specific stroller brands or models, so be sure to double-check before purchasing!
Second, consider the climate in which you live and the types of activities you might be doing with your kids. Some accessories are more important and useful in certain situations, while other accessories may not be right for your family.
Finally, consider your budget. Stroller accessories are well worth it, but if you’re on a tight budget, it’s important to research and prioritize the accessories that will make the biggest difference to you and your family.
Choosing Your Double Stroller
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