Choosing the Right Double Stroller for Your Family
Child ages and stages: Side-by-side models give equal recline and visibility, which suits twins and close-in-age siblings. Convertible singles-to-doubles are built for staggered ages, with a bassinet up top and a toddler seat or rumble seat below.
Doorway and sidewalk width: Most premium side-by-sides come in under 30 inches wide to clear standard 32-inch doorways. Inline (tandem) convertibles run narrower if you live in a row house or shop tight aisles.
Car seat compatibility: If you're building a travel system for two, confirm the stroller accepts two infant car seats with the right adapters. Compatibility spans Maxi-Cosi Mico, Cybex Aton, Chicco KeyFit, UPPAbaby MESA, and UPPAbaby Aria depending on the stroller frame.
Handlebar height for tall parents: Look for adjustable or telescoping handlebars on doubles. The added length of a tandem frame can put shorter, fixed handlebars too close to your stride.
Folded footprint and weight: A double folds bigger than a single by definition. Check trunk dimensions and lift weight before you commit, especially for SUV cargo areas and brownstone stairs.
Terrain: All-wheel suspension and larger rear wheels handle gravel paths, grass, and packed snow. For running, a locking front wheel is non-negotiable, which is where dedicated jogging strollers from BOB and Thule come in.
Which Double Stroller Style Fits Your Life
For twin parents: Side-by-side doubles with matched recline, independent canopies, and dual infant car seat capability from birth.
For growing families: Convertible singles like the UPPAbaby Vista, Bugaboo Donkey, and Silver Cross Wave that start as a single and expand with a second seat, rumble seat, or piggyback board.
For active and tall parents: Double joggers with air-filled tires, hand brakes, and high, adjustable handlebars sized for parents over six feet.
If you're between styles, sketch out the next three years: a newborn plus a two-year-old has different needs than newborn twins, and the right frame should still make sense when both kids are walking part of the day. Our gear team ships nationwide from our New Jersey warehouse with white-glove support, and every double stroller here is authentic, brand-authorized, and backed by full manufacturer warranty. Browse the full lineup above, or jump straight to convertible strollers if you're planning ahead for baby number two.
Is a double stroller needed with a 3+ year old and newborn?
This question does not have a black and white answer. It depends on your child’s personality, temperament, and needs, as well as your lifestyle and outings you regularly do. If you frequently visit amusement parks, for example, you will likely benefit from a double stroller. A convertible stroller - a single stroller that can become a double - is a great option to consider as well since once your older child is done with the stroller you can go back to pushing a single stroller.
Some 3+ year olds still need or want a stroller seat, making a double stroller necessary if you also have a younger sibling. Other 3+ year olds are done with strollers and a double stroller would be a waste. Then there are others that are mostly done with the stroller, but when a new baby comes they all of a sudden want to be back in the stroller. For this situation, you may be able to get through these few months by baby wearing the newborn until your older child decides they don't want to ride anymore.
For those wanting an option for their older child, but not a full blown double stroller, many strollers have ride-along boards or can be used with a universal one! This allows the child to stand (or sit on some models) when they need a rest, and they can be put out of the way when the child is walking. These are typically appropriate for children three years and older - although that will vary depending on your child.
If you have a convertible stroller such as the UPPAbaby Vista, you may be able to get by without purchasing a second sibling seat (the Rumble Seat in this case). Your older child can sit in the main stroller seat and you can put the car seat or bassinet in the second position. By the time the baby outgrows those options, your older child may be done with the stroller or may be ready to just use a ride-along board option.
Ultimately, the decision to use a double stroller depends on your family's specific circumstances and preferences. If possible, test different stroller configurations and consider your daily routines to determine what will work best for you and your children!
