HOW TO PICK A DOUBLE STROLLER?
Here’s what you need to know
HOW TO PICK A DOUBLE STROLLER?
Are you scratching your head wondering: “How do I pick a double stroller that’s perfect for my family”? You are not the first one. Sometimes, choosing a double stroller can be confusing. The good news is that we’re here to help make it simple. Stay tuned while we talk about the specific needs of purchasing a stroller for twins in an upcoming piece. We are going to address the needs of parents expecting another baby while an older sibling is still of strolling age. Without further ado, let’s get started.
LET’S TALK A LITTLE ABOUT THE DIFFERENTIATING FEATURES BETWEEN A SINGLE AND A DOUBLE STROLLER
First, as the name suggests, a double stroller is a stroller created for two kids. Double strollers usually have the same wheel structure as a single stroller but two seats. The seats can either be placed one behind another or side-by-side. Some of these strollers are convertible, and the most prominent models are four-wheelers. There are also models with three or even eight wheels (such as Hop). Most of them will come with two separate canopies. Few models might have one large shared canopy and we don’t really like these. What’s more, the structure of a double stroller is reinforced to have a much better weight capacity than a single stroller. Most models can hold up to 100 pounds.
WHY DO YOU NEED A DOUBLE STROLLER?
A double stroller is an absolute necessity. Some parents who got two kids close together try to save money, using only one stroller. At times, this is doable. For example, when going walking with your partner. In this case, one will be able to take care of the older child while the other will push the stroller. But what if you are alone with two kids? What about jogging with a stroller? How about running errands with two kids? For sure, there will be situations like this. Therefore if you really want to save, we recommend you to better sell your old stroller, add some money, and buy a double. Trust us; it pays off.
TYPES OF DOUBLE STROLLERS:
By design and purpose, we can divide double strollers into seven additional categories. Let’s unfold each of these categories together.
ALL-TERRAIN DOUBLE STROLLERS
All-terrain strollers are often mixed with jogging strollers. These double side-by-side models usually come with three wheels and massive air-filled tires. The tires help to make the ride smoother and more comfortable for your babies, and they’re incredibly convenient for maneuvering. As the name suggests, their key attribute is that you are able to push them on a variety of terrains, specifically because of the wheels. These double strollers are equipped with 5-point harnesses, calf supports, and two independent canopies. Remember, do not use one for children under six months unless it is compatible with infant car seat brands. Make sure you install the seat correctly.
ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A COMPACT, LIGHTER DOUBLE STROLLER?
In this case, you might want to skip this type. They are definitely on the heavier side. All-terrain strollers weigh somewhere between 30-and 45 lbs. Also, it won’t be easy at all to cram one into your trunk. Their price range goes between approximately $135 and $500. Anyways there are some luxurious models that might go up to $800 or even more than $1000. These strollers are good for adventurists and active parents!
DON’T MIX ALL-TERRAIN STROLLERS WITH JOGGING STROLLERS
Jogging strollers come with a specific suspension system and a handbrake to facilitate steering. On the other hand, all-terrain strollers do not necessarily have it. Also, jogging strollers have a fixed front wheel. All-terrain strollers typically have front swivel wheels.
DOUBLE JOGGING STROLLER
The double jogging stroller is the best stroller for athletic parents who can’t give up on running. Their attribute is maneuverability. Usually, jogging strollers are built for convenient steering, easy stopping, and comfortable rides. They have massive tires too (three or four of them) but these tires are not always pneumatic ones. Often they come with solid rubber tires and, in rare cases with plastic ones. What’s specific about them is the all-wheel suspension system, and if they have a front swivel wheel, it always has a locking option.
MORE ATTRIBUTES OF THE DOUBLE JOGGING STROLLER
Double jogging strollers include both a handbrake and a parking brake, as well as a large storage basket. The seats are equipped with five-point safety harnesses. However, you cannot use them for kids under six months unless they are infant seat compatible. We must also note that this model is not exactly a lightweight double stroller. They weigh more or less as much as all-terrain doubles (30-40 lbs), but they do have a compact fold. Their price goes between $200 and $750.
DOUBLE UMBRELLA STROLLER
Umbrella strollers are foldable to a slim vertical shape, umbrella-like. Therefore these strollers are perfect for traveling, carpooling, shopping, and every other situation when you need a compact, expandable stroller. It’s unbelievable how lightweight they are. Double umbrella strollers can weigh somewhere around 20 pounds. Usually, they have a capacity of 75 pounds or so. As mentioned before, we wouldn’t recommend this stroller for parents with infants if it’s not compatible with car seats.
OUR FAVORITE DOUBLE UMBRELLA STROLLER RIGHT NOW IS HOP
HOP double stroller is our tandem umbrella stroller. It will help parents to make exercise, errands, and daily life easier. Weighing in at only 21.5 lbs. it is lightweight, narrow, and easily collapsible for parents on the go. Suitable for both twins and siblings that are close in age the small footprint and compact design make this the easiest way to get two children around period.
What’s more
Unlike most umbrella strollers, Hop has full-size canopies, cupholders, and a lot of storage space. So if you have been blessed with twins or have 2 children who are close in age, this stroller can easily help you cope with both your kids simultaneously. With an HOP stroller it is simple to carry your babies anywhere you go. For a more drawn-out outing, owning a travel system, a double stroller, and an infant car seat combined into one, will likewise be an extraordinary resource. HOP is very lightweight and perfect for traveling parents, whether by car or flight. Also, its storage space is not limited either. It will make a good and effective investment for your family.
Does this sound like a double stroller you might need? For more details 
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TRAVEL DOUBLE STROLLER
Travel double strollers are almost the same as umbrella ones. They’re lightweight, compact, and able to fold to a small size. The big difference between these two is that the travel stroller is more heavy-duty. Usually, they are more expensive than an umbrella double stroller. However, they also have better structural integrity and overall quality. Travel double strollers have full-size canopies, cupholders, and many storage pockets. These models are not that budget-friendly as they go between $100 and $700. As a result, we wouldn’t recommend them if you are looking for a part-time solution for their short trip. Lastly, they weigh around 20 pounds, while their weight capacity is usually 35 pounds per seat.
TANDEM DOUBLE STROLLER
Tandem double strollers, also called in-line strollers (such as Hop) come with seats placed one behind another. They are much loved for they are no wider than a standard single stroller. It is worth noting that a tandem stroller allows numerous configurations, face-to-face, front-to-back, two-level configuration, bassinet and toddler seat, etc. However, the most attractive feature of this category is that there are single-to-double convertibles.
SIT AND STAND DOUBLE STROLLER
This type is a hybrid of tandem strollers, specially built for families with two children who are not that close in age. The front seat is usually car seat compatible and optimized for a smaller kid. The back seat is for an older child, at least 2.5 years old. However, there are many different models. Also, this stroller includes a standing platform. Therefore, when you remove the back toddler seat or bench seat, your older child can stand on the standing platform and hold the handle installed to the stroller frame. They are lighter than many side-by-side counterparts, still not as lightweight as travel strollers. On average, sit and stand double strollers weigh between 25 pounds and 30 pounds, while their weight capacity is between 80 pounds and 100 pounds. Their price goes between $180 to $799.
CONVERTIBLE DOUBLE STROLLER
Convertible double strollers are the most practical double strollers on the market. That’s because they can be optimized to support between one and three kids. These strollers can also have numerous possible configurations. What’s more, they are compatible with car seats. However, the second seat is usually sold separately. Keep that in mind when it comes to cost planning. This is not the option for families on a tight budget. When you include the second seat and adapter, you can’t find a decent model for under $400. Their weight capacity goes up to 90-100 pounds, so accordingly, these strollers are themselves a bit heavy. The lightest models weigh around 30 pounds.
TRIPLE (OR QUAD) STROLLER
These types of strollers can be both tandem or side-by-side. On tandem strollers, there are usually two twin seats and one standing platform, all in-line. They can also come in a combination of three equal seats for +6 months. In the case of side-by-side models, two seats are placed one next to another, and the third is installed in front of one seat, lifted a bit higher. There are some extremely expensive models that can include three seats side-by-side.
It’s worth noting that they have a massive construction and don’t fold to small sizes. Also, these strollers are heavy as heck. They weigh around 60 pounds at best. What’s more, triple (or quad) strollers are either too long for convenient steering or too wide for doorways, and it’s really a hassle to fit them into your truck. The price goes between $350 to +$1000. If you’re really in need of a triple stroller we recommend you choose the high-end models with upgraded wheel systems, advanced structures, and good maneuverability.
IT’S IMPORTANT TO CONSIDER YOUR LIFESTYLE
“Life Before Baby” is not just a first child phenomenon. Keep in mind that life will change again with a new baby around. Now you will need two of everything. Therefore, it’s time to get used to seeing double. When it comes to your stroller, an upgrade might only mean purchasing a second seat. Or, it could mean a whole new system.
Ask yourself this question about your lifestyle to begin:
WILL YOU SPEND A LOT OF TIME IN CRAMPED OR CROWDED SPACES?
Then you might need an easy-to-shoulder double umbrella stroller. It will provide the most flexibility in these situations. These amazing strollers, and others like them, fold quickly and navigate tight spaces with ease. Otherwise, a narrow tandem might make more sense in crowds. Don’t forget to consider how often you will need to fold it to use the stairs or fit through tight lines. A lot of parents continue to tell us that maneuverable in-line strollers offer superior flexibility. The newest varieties of double umbrellas offer lightweight and easy to carry. Luckily, these days, you don’t have to sacrifice many features either.
WILL YOU OFTEN NEED TO LOAD YOUR STROLLER IN AND OUT OF A VEHICLE?
Do you spend more time driving than walking? Them your stroller needs will change substantially. Try to consider how much time your child spends riding versus time in the car. A tandem stroller with many parts might be frustrating especially if your family lives in the suburbs and you drive a lot.
DO YOU USUALLY SPEND MUCH TIME OUTDOORS ON UNEVEN SURFACES?
It’s always very important to consider stroller suspension, wheel durability, and braking systems. Especially when your family lives for the outdoors. As we all know, not every stroller can handle off-road adventures. Do your family love parks and nature trails? Then you will need a stroller built for adventure. These models are usually larger than others. However, they will pay dividends in durability and maneuverability.
DO YOU WALK ON BUMPY ROADS, DRIVEWAYS, OR SIDEWALKS?
Parents must consider whether they spend time pushing their baby on cobblestone or gravel. These surfaces may not be rustic but do mean things can get bumpy. We recommend you use front locking wheels and suspension to save your children from an uncomfortable ride.
PICK A DOUBLE STROLLER WITH EASE
“Life Before Baby” is not just a first child phenomenon. Keep in mind that life will change again with a new baby around. Now you will need two of everything. Therefore, it’s time to get used to seeing double. When it comes to your stroller, an upgrade might only mean purchasing a second seat. Or, it could mean a whole new system.
WHAT AGE IS THE DOUBLE STROLLER FOR?
When double strollers were later introduced, they were mostly recommended for twins or two children younger than 3. But today is a different story. Most manufacturers market strollers that carry children beyond age 4, with increasing weight limits of as much as 50 pounds or 150 for some double strollers.
CAN YOU PUT A NEWBORN IN A DOUBLE STROLLER?
The answer to this is yes. Your newborns can absolutely ride in the right double stroller. A double stroller is for sure a great investment and you can start using many of the models the day your twins are born. All you have to do is to make sure that the newborn twin’s stroller has seats that recline fully for use before 6 months of age.
TO SUM IT UP
At the end of the day, double strollers are definitely worth your money. You are going to need one, especially if you take your little ones out often for walks, parks, family events, or shopping. And let us tell you if you just got twins, your second child, or you love jogging with two of your little ones, yes! You do need it. We hope this article has guided you towards the right option for your growing family and given you a variety of different options that are fit for two. Of course, there are plenty to choose from in the market. If you are still looking for more stroller options, our staff are all mums too and can help you find the best solution for your family. Feel free to get in touch. Also, if you would like to do some further reading on strollers, you can read our blog which discusses how to convert a single stroller into a double!
TAKING A STROLLER TO THE BEACH: ALL YOU NEED TO CONSIDER
All you need to consider
TAKING A STROLLER TO THE BEACH
One of the fondest memories you’ll have with your little one will be going to the beach. However, a trip to the beach with babies or toddlers requires a lot of planning. Even though taking a stroller to the beach isn’t easy, you will need an efficient one to help you through the challenges of getting your baby and all his little stuff from the car to the beach.
As we all know, not every stroller is built the same. The market has a variety of options, but here’s what you need to know. There are logistical concerns with having the right gear for your baby. There are also safety concerns to protect your baby from the sun, wind, and sand. In this article, we’ll share the important things to consider when taking a baby stroller to the beach. We will also provide a very short list of the best beach strollers to expedite your shopping decision-making.
CAN YOU TAKE A BABY STROLLER TO THE BEACH?
This is a very common question that we hear from families. The answer is yes. However, we must also note that it won’t be easy. It may be a hassle and prevent you and your family from enjoying time at the beach, especially if you pick up the wrong stroller. In fact, taking a stroller to the beach can be a real headache if you don’t ask yourself these questions:
- Is the beach busy with lots of people?
- Is there a boardwalk?
- Are there lifeguard towers to leave the stroller?
- How strong/wide are your stroller wheels?
- How far is the parking lot from the beach?
BEST BEACH STROLLERS
The best beach strollers are able to handle all types of terrains. This way you won’t have to worry about getting stuck in the sand on a fun family day out. Manufacturers produce beach-friendly baby strollers that are comfortable for both parents and babies. They are usually suitable for daily use as well. Therefore, no matter the reason you’re looking for the best beach strollers, this selection has something for everyone.
TAKE A LOOK AT METRO STROLLER
A lightweight, all-terrain stroller with a car seat. Metro is perfect for strolling or jogging through the beach. You can bring everything you need with its large cargo basket. This stroller is convenient and ergonomic, and it will provide you with the smooth ride you desire for both parent and child. Get ready to hit the ground rolling with a lightweight aluminum frame that folds compactly for ease of use and storage. Metro offers a dual-position seat that allows your baby to face you or take on the world. The included (no need to buy anything additional) universal car seat adapter allows for use from birth with compatible infant car seats.
See available Metro stroller colors and check for current discounts here.
HOP DOUBLE STROLLER
If a single beach stroller needs to be good, a double beach stroller needs to be excellent. Your little ones will enjoy strolling and exploring the beach comfortably with Hop’s soft and wide seats. The dual canopies are waterproof and have UPF 50+ sun protection. It comes with a large storage basket that can carry up to 15 pounds. This tandem double stroller also meets Disneyland/Disneyworld stroller size requirements. Its dimensions go up to 45″ L x 12″ W x 15.5″ H when folded and 30″ L x 20.5″ W x 42″ H when unfolded. Weighing in at only 21.5 lbs. it is lightweight, narrow, and easily collapsible for parents on the go.
It will make a good and effective investment for your family. You will not regret buying it! Click here for more details.
PICKING A BEACH STROLLER
Usually, the best strollers for the beach tend to be jogging strollers (such as Jump) that are designed with rough terrains and active families in mind. Jogging strollers are great but there are a few things about them you need to keep in mind. Most of them tend to be heavier than compact strollers in order to ensure better stability and grip when on the move. These strollers might have a sportier look, which is great for outdoor pursuits but may not encounter your taste as the main stroller. Lastly, they tend to have air-filled tires which are great for smooth rides. However, it may require extra pumping after prolonged use.
JUMP IS NOT A TYPICAL JOGGING STROLLER
Did we mention that jump is the same size as a single umbrella stroller? It only weighs 18 lbs and its dimensions go for 45″ L x 11″ W x 15.5″ H when folded and 30″ L x 20.5″ W x 42″ H when unfolded. “Jump” stroller has a lightweight aluminum frame, a compact umbrella fold, and a removable canopy, it also has a removable cup holder. A rear platform seat allows a child 2.5+ years to easily “jump” on and off. The comfy front seat is suitable from 3+ months or birth with a compatible infant car seat. It has eight, medium-sized wheels to glide over rough surfaces (less pushing for you) and a suspension system to decrease the impact of jolts on your baby. This stroller cuts down on your physical efforts and it is convenient when you are traveling. It will help your child in being secure and happy on any journey or trip.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN CHOOSING THE BEST BEACH STROLLER FOR BEACH DAYS / BEACH VACATIONS
When choosing a stroller for the beach, we looked at a few specs that we wanted the stroller to have.
SUN PROTECTION
Of course, you have to pick a stroller that offers sun protection when choosing one for the beach. You need a large canopy and UV-safe material. This will help you shade your baby from the sun. Combined with rash guards and sunscreen, can make your days at the beach longer and safer. You can also drape a lightweight blanket over your stroller to block the sun while you’re out for a walk. Remember, in this case, it is very important to make sure your little one is staying cool and getting plenty of fresh air. Another easy way to avoid the sun’s harmful rays is by using an umbrella. It won’t restrict air circulation. Lastly, it is also helpful to buy a stroller with light fabric.
STROLLER VENTILATION
As we all know, the beach can get very hot. Therefore it is important for a beach stroller to have materials that are not too plasticky and allow a good flow of air.
For this, I find our all-terrain umbrella strollers to be the best as they are built to perform in different conditions, including outdoor varying temperatures. Ventilation, via either mesh panels or the fabric used in the canopy, is very important too. It keeps your child comfortable and not too warm. Some strollers come with canopies that have a clear plastic or mesh window on top, so you can keep an eye on your baby.
AGE RANGE
One of the most important considerations when picking a stroller for the beach is the age range a stroller is suitable for. Are you thinking of getting a beach stroller as your main or only stroller? Then you need to make sure it is suitable for newborns and kids under 6 months. This usually means the stroller seat can lie fully flat. The choice is smaller for a good beach terrain stroller from birth than for a beach stroller for older kids. However, it is important to follow manufacturer instructions and not skip to the size ahead. Keep in mind that the wrong seat can be dangerous and really harm your baby.
MANEUVERABILITY
Remember, a good beach stroller has to be very easy to maneuver. Of course, no matter how good it may be, the sand will make it harder to push.
IF YOUR BEACH HAS A BOARDWALK YOU’RE IN LUCK
Some beaches are perfect for strollers. You can find beach boardwalks that stretch for miles. They offer hours of walking or running with your baby. However, as we all know, using the boardwalk won’t get you on the sand. It won’t provide time to sleep on the beach. On the other hand, the boardwalk is the perfect place to go if you want to get outside and exercise. Baby strollers are allowed even in the areas marked for walkers and runners. Even though most boardwalks are paved, keep in mind that a baby stroller (runner) with large rubber tires will make it much easier to push.
CAN YOU PUSH A STROLLER ON SAND?
This is the reason why finding a good stroller for the beach is not easy. We all know how hard it is to push a stroller on the sand. However, wheels are a great help when lugging all the gear you need for a day at the beach with a toddler. A stroller is something we highly recommend you don’t go without! Of course, if you are spending a weekend at the beach then expect to walk on the sand. Once you leave the boardwalk pushing the stroller will be laborious and maybe even impossible. Remember, every beach has a different type of sand. There are beaches that have thick powdering sand while others have coarse compacted sand. Anyway, most tourist beaches have the former.
THE STROLLER WILL GET YOU FROM THE CAR TO THE SAND
You are going to need the stroller to get from the car to the sand. It will probably be packed with diapers, food, and other necessities for the day. Sometimes, you might have to pick up the stroller and carry it to your spot on the beach. Hopefully, if you’re strong this won’t be a problem. Otherwise, we recommend you park it in a convenient location, close to your spot on the beach. Try to get to the beach early before all the other beachgoers arrive. For sure, if you arrive before 10 am in the summer tourist season you should have your choice of parking spots. Remember, a good parking spot means you can leave the stroller in the car.
WHEEL SIZE MATTERS
When it comes to strollers everyone agrees about this – wheel size matters. Usually, thin tires don’t do well on sand (including bike tires). If you want a stroller that does well on sand go for wide wheels. They will provide more surface area on an uneven beach. Don’t expect to run or walk with your stroller on the sand if it is not wet. Wet sand near the water is usually best for running. However, we don’t think it’s firm enough for a stroller.
THE SAND MIGHT STAY IN THE STROLLER FOR SOMETIME
Strangely, the mere act of taking a stroller to the beach will involve sand getting everywhere. Even when you work hard to make sure the wheels aren’t in contact with the sand, it doesn’t matter. Sand has a way of getting everywhere. Randomly, it appears for months afterward. If your baby stroller is high quality try not taking it near the sand. Sand can get in bearings and cause problems in wheels.
WE DON’T RECOMMEND YOU TO LEAVE THE BABY STROLLERS UNWATCHED
Have you used the stroller to arrive at the beach? Then your first thought might have been: “where can I leave the stroller while walking on the beach”. We recommend you do a mental checklist:
- Is the beach too busy?
- Can you keep an eye on the stroller?
- Is there a place where you can “hide” it?
- Do you have a bike lock so you can lock the stroller in a secure place?
- Is there a lifeguard tower nearby where you can park it?
CROWDED BEACHES?
A crowded beach will have plenty of foot traffic walking by your unattended stroller. Of course, this isn’t a good thing especially if your stroller is nice. If you can keep an eye on the stroller while you’re resting or walking on the beach it might be possible to leave your stroller. In this case, you have to find a spot on the beach that’s only 50-100 feet from the stroller.
As a result, you’ll have less walking and you don’t have to worry about your stroller going missing.
DO YOU HAVE AN EXTRA BIKE LOCK?
It is perfect for this situation. Using a bike lock gives you the option of leaving the stroller next to a pole or bike rack and forgetting about it until you come back. Few people would cut a bike lock to take a stroller! Your last option is to look for a lifeguard tower and leave your stroller next to it. Lifeguards are the authority on a beach. Therefore leaving items there will be better protected than out in the open. You can also ask the lifeguard if it’s permitted to leave your stroller there.
BABY BEACH ESSENTIALS YOU WILL NEED FOR A GREAT TRIP AT THE BEACH
Are you taking your baby to the beach? You’ll love watching him/her play in the sand and water. Here is a list of essentials for a baby at the beach.
BEACH CLOTHES
Their beachwear is one of the most important beach necessities for babies. Rather than trying to make sure you cover every spot with sunscreen, we recommend you keep your baby’s skin protected from the sun with your baby’s beach clothes. Be diligent with covering other areas with sunscreen and reapply as needed. It is very important to consult your doctor about using sunscreen on babies less than 6 months old.
BABY SUNSCREEN
Sunscreen is an absolute must for babies who might be crawling around in the sand or water. Make sure to get a water-resistant one with less harmful chemicals. You need a reef-safe sunscreen with organic ingredients for babies. Cream sunscreens typically offer better coverage. Always apply before you get to the beach for a less fussy child and when needed!
SWIM DIAPER AND ESSENTIALS
Pack just enough for the day. You have to always change your baby into a clean fresh diaper and shorts so he doesn’t get the car seat wet. If he falls asleep in the car you don’t need to worry about changing the baby and waking him up. Happy Toddler, Happy Parents.
BABY BEACH TENT
Are you planning a full day in the sun? Then you really have to keep your baby protected from the elements. You can’t go wrong with a baby sun tent. There are a few options to consider when looking for the best baby beach tent and it will depend on how you want to use it.
BABY SWIMMING TOYS
Help your baby keep cool in the calm ocean water with baby swimming toys. If the water at the beach is just too rough for your baby, then add an inflatable baby pool to your beach essentials for the baby. You can position it in or near your baby sun tent. This way your little one has some shade while they splash around in this pool. Grab yourself a set of sandy beach toys that includes a bucket, shovels, and a watering can. Your baby will love dumping out the water and digging in the sand.
TO CONCLUDE
Taking a stroller to the beach is a good idea. However, try to make sure there’s a place to put it and if it’s worth carrying on the sand. As mentioned before, at most beaches there are lifeguard towers and bike racks where you can lock up the stroller while you walk on the beach. It is also very important to understand that if it’s a busy beach you might be better off leaving the stroller in the car. On the other hand, if the beach you’re visiting has a boardwalk, it’s perfect for running or walking (sometimes many miles). Lastly, try to make sure to arrive early and find a parking spot close to the shore. Remember, the closer you can park the less need you’ll have for taking your stroller to the beach.