Families with twins or children close in age often need a double stroller. Double strollers come in several styles, each with tradeoffs in width, weight, maneuverability and seating. Choosing the right one depends on your children’s ages, where you walk and how you store and transport the stroller.
This guide compares double stroller types and features. Always follow manufacturer weight limits and instructions.
Types of Double Strollers
Side-by-Side
Children sit next to each other.
Pros: Equal views and seats; easy to see both children
Cons: Wide; may not fit some doorways and aisles
Tandem (Inline)
One seat in front of or above the other.
Pros: Narrower; fits through standard doorways
Cons: Longer; rear or lower seat may have less view or legroom
Convertible Single-to-Double
Starts as a single and adds a second seat. See the convertible strollers guide.
Sit-and-Stand
A front seat for a younger child and a rear bench or standing platform for an older child.
Pros: Useful when the older child walks part of the time
Cons: Limited seating for the older child
Double Jogging Strollers
Designed for running or rough terrain with larger wheels and suspension. Follow manufacturer guidance for jogging with young babies, and ask your pediatrician.
Features to Compare
Width
Measure your front door, hallways and common store aisles. Side-by-side strollers vary in width.
Weight and Fold
Double strollers are heavy. Check fold style and folded size against your trunk.
Seats
- Independent recline for each seat
- Canopy coverage
- Legroom
- Harness ease
Car Seat Compatibility
For newborns, check whether infant car seats fit with adapters. See travel systems explained.
Wheels and Suspension
Larger wheels handle curbs and rough paths.
Storage Basket
Baskets can be smaller or harder to reach on doubles.
Brakes
Check how easy brakes are to engage.
Twins vs. Siblings
Twins
Side-by-side or tandem with two infant car seat options.
Siblings of Different Ages
Tandem, convertible or sit-and-stand may suit different needs.
Testing Before You Buy
- Push with weight in both seats if possible
- Steer around tight corners
- Practice folding
- Lift it into your car
- Check handlebar height
Safety Tips
- Use harnesses every time
- Apply brakes when stopped
- Do not exceed weight limits
- Do not hang bags on handlebars
- Check for recalls
Questions to Ask Before You Buy
- Will it fit through our doors?
- Does it fit our trunk?
- Can both seats recline?
- Is it compatible with infant car seats?
- How heavy is it to lift?
Common Mistakes
- Not measuring doorways
- Ignoring folded size
- Choosing a style that does not suit children’s ages
- Overloading baskets and handlebars
- Skipping test drives
Comparison Table
| Type | Width | Seating | Common use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Side-by-side | Wider | Equal seats | Twins, open spaces |
| Tandem | Narrower | Front and rear | Doorways, crowded areas |
| Convertible | Narrow | Configurable | Planning for siblings |
| Sit-and-stand | Narrow | Seat plus bench or platform | Older child who walks sometimes |
| Double jogger | Often wide | Equal seats | Rough terrain |
A Note on Public Transit and Crowds
Double strollers can be harder to use on buses, trains and in crowded stores. Tandem and sit-and-stand designs are often easier in tight spaces. Check transit rules about folding strollers and consider a carrier for one child when space is limited.
A Note on Secondhand Double Strollers
Double strollers are often available secondhand. Check frames, wheels, brakes, harnesses and fold locks; confirm all seats and adapters are included; and look up recalls.
Starting Small
If your second child is still on the way, you might use a single stroller plus a carrier or ride-on board for a while before deciding on a double.
Final Pre-Purchase Check
- Fits doors and trunk
- Fold practiced
- Seats suit children’s ages
- Car seat compatibility confirmed
- Return policy reviewed
A Note on Twins and Infant Car Seats
For newborn twins, some double strollers accept two infant car seats with adapters, while others require a separate frame. Check compatibility carefully and confirm both seats lock in securely. Lifting two infant seats is heavy, so consider how you will move between car and stroller.
A Note on Accessories
Double strollers may need two rain covers, two cup holders, a larger footmuff or a snack tray for each seat. Some accessories are sold separately, so add them to your budget.
Storing a Double Stroller
Doubles take up space when folded. Measure your entryway closet, garage or trunk. Some families store the stroller in the car trunk; others keep it near the door. Folding and lifting regularly is part of daily life, so choose a weight you can manage.
Questions to Ask Other Parents
- Which type worked for their children’s ages?
- Did it fit through stores and doors?
- How heavy was it to lift every day?
Final Thoughts on Choosing
There is no single best double stroller. Families with twins, families with a toddler and a newborn and families who jog all need different features. Start with your children’s ages, your doorways and your car, then compare a short list in person if you can.
A Note on Terrain
Smooth sidewalks suit most doubles, but gravel, grass and snow favor larger wheels and suspension. Think about where you walk most before choosing wheel size.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which double stroller type is best?
It depends on children’s ages and where you walk.
Do side-by-side strollers fit through doors?
Many do, but measure first.
Can I use infant car seats with a double stroller?
Many accept them with adapters.
What is a sit-and-stand stroller?
A stroller with a seat for a younger child and a bench or platform for an older child.
Are double strollers heavy?
Usually heavier than singles.
The Bottom Line
Choose a side-by-side, tandem, convertible or sit-and-stand stroller based on your children, doorways, storage and terrain. Test push and fold before buying and follow safety guidance.
Editorial note: Nursery Roost is independent and reader-supported. This guide is based on research into manufacturer documentation, published specifications and widely accepted best practices; we have not been paid to mention any product. If we add affiliate links in the future, they will be clearly disclosed per our Affiliate Disclosure.
