A guide to twin strollers
It doesn’t matter if you’re shopping for twins or siblings who are two years apart in age, the search for the perfect double stroller can be long and arduous! In this guide, we look at the differences between tandem and side-by-side strollers and share our picks!
Preparing for the arrival of twins or a second child can be exhilarating and terrifying at the same time. When I found out I was pregnant with my set, I already had a feisty two-year-old to contend with and the thought of having three under the age of three terrified me. I had no idea how I would even manage to leave the house let alone cart them around from park to playdate.
It turns out that the secret is in the stroller. Before you impulse-buy a sexy model with all the bells and whistles, make sure you’ve identified your needs.
Questions to ask yourself when shopping for a twin or double stroller
Are you simply trying to be future proof?
Are you shopping for twins or siblings who are different ages?
Do you value the ability to attach ride on boards for bigger kids?
Do you want a high-performing stroller that will allow you to power walk with the other moms in your neighborhood?
Do you prefer a compact model you can easily throw in the car for weekends away?
Looking for an easy-to-maneuver one with loads of storage space?
When it comes to double strollers, your two main choices are: Side-by-Side, and Tandem
Tandem Double Strollers
The seats in a tandem stroller are arranged one in front of the other, so the stroller is no wider than a single but much longer. Tandem models are generally easier to maneuver in tight spaces than side-by-sides and they’re more likely to accommodate two infant car seats (a super-convenient feature in the first six months of your twins’ lives). They also tend to come with more bells and whistles such as large sunshades, cup holders, snack trays and large storage baskets. Some models offer different seat positions, including both seats facing forward, both seats facing backward and the two seats facing each other.
On the downside, tandems tend to be heavier and less compact than side-by-side models when folded up. Because they’re often designed for a baby and an older child, the two seats aren’t necessarily created equal. One is sometimes roomier to accommodate a bigger child and only the back seat fully reclines, which is very impractical when you have two young babies who need to nap. Some parents – and kids! – dislike the fact that the backseat offers a limited view and legroom.
Lucky for us, Nuna has nailed the tandem stroller with their Nuna DEMI Grow! An amazing single stroller, you have the option to purchase additional bassinets or sibling seats to turn it into a double or twin stroller.
Our Favorite Nuna DEMI Grow Key Features:
-
Easily converts from single to double stroller
-
Removable and extendable UPF 50+ canopy with built-in ventilation and Nuna’s signature Dream Drape for extensive coverage
-
Terrain tires, foam-filled and built tough
-
One-touch rear wheel breaking
-
Spacious basket supports up to 10 lbs
-
Adapters for Nuna car seats – two sets of car seat adapters are included (for two car seats)
Scroll down to see just some of the configuration options.
Nuna Demi Grow
$799.95
Available in more colors
Side-by-Side Strollers
As the name implies, the seats in this type of stroller are placed next to each other. Twin parents tend to prefer this arrangement because it offers both children the same view and allows both seats to fully recline. A side-by-side stroller is generally lighter, more compact and more stable than a tandem.
But side-by-sides aren’t without disadvantages. Because they’re wider than a single stroller, they can be more difficult to maneuver in tight spaces and squeezing through single doorways can be a challenge. While some models now come with car-seat adapters, generous storage space and a range of fancy features, most side-by-side strollers are still very basic. For some parents, the fact that their twins are on display is a disadvantage because it allows curious strangers to ogle them!
When it comes to side-by-sides, we love the Bugaboo Donkey3! Not only does it easily convert from a twin to a single stroller, it features bassinets that change into seats and can accommodate one or two car seats. AND the Donkey 3 measures in at only 29.1″ wide while offering an incredibly smooth ride as well as an impressive range of features and inclusions.
Our Favorite Bugaboo Donkey3 Key Features:
-
One-piece self-standing fold or two-piece compact fold
-
Multi-terrain, modular system
-
One-hand operating seat recline and reverse
-
Height-adjustable handlebar
-
Side luggage basket—for added storage when going for a stroll with one of the twins
-
Sun canopy is water-repellant, with UPF 50+ sun protection
-
The bassinet, seat and sun canopy fabrics are machine washable at 86°F
-
Puncture-proof, 10-inch foam wheels and swivel front wheels provide a smooth and comfortable ride
Scroll down to see their Twin configuration vs their Duo configuration.
Bugaboo Donkey3 Twin Stroller
Bugaboo Donkey3 Twin – Black
$1,889
Bugaboo Donkey3 Twin – Grey Melange
$1,789
Bugaboo Donkey3 Duo Stroller
Bugaboo Donkey3 Duo – Black
$1,759
Bugaboo Donkey3 Duo – Grey Melange
$1,659
Continue exploring
- Simple to start, easy to manage: Start your Tot Baby Registry today!
- Organic cotton basics? Ultra soft and breathable bamboo essentials? Matching pima cotton PJs for the whole family? Yes, Please! Check out what’s new from HART + LAND!
