Car Seat and Stroller for 2 Year Old

If you have more than one little one on the way or you're having a second baby while your first is still in diapers, you probably have a lot of questions. Will I ever sleep again? How many cups of coffee is too many cups of coffee? And how will I get around with two kiddos in tow?

While we may not be able to help with those first two questions, we can help with the third. Meet the double stroller: a parent's best friend when you have two (or more) kids close in age.

In this article:

• Babylist Best Double Stroller Picks
• Do You Need a Double Stroller?
• What Are the Types of Double Strollers?

Do You Need a Double Stroller?

Although it's something many parents of multiple kiddos close in age use a lot, a double stroller is a big investment. If you already have a single stroller and aren't sure you want to pony up for a double, there are a few options to explore.

• Stroller boards: Some strollers offer a ride-along board for an older sibling that attaches to the back of the stroller base. There are also universal boards that work with lots of different stroller brands. Before you to this route, though, you'll need to make sure your child is up for—and capable of—the challenge.
• Baby carrier: You can also explore using a baby carrier for your younger child and putting the older one in a single stroller. But this won't work for twins, and will only work for as long as your second child can fit in a carrier.

What are the Types of Double Strollers?

There are three basic types of double strollers: side-by-sides, in-lines and convertibles.

Side-by-side strollers, as the name implies, have seats that are positioned next to each other.

• Pros: the seats on side-by-side strollers usually have the same amount of space between them and the same amenities like cup or snack holders, recline, leg room and weight limit. Side-by-sides are generally easy to fold and (relatively) easy to turn and maneuver and some parents like that the configuration makes it easy for their children to interact with each other. Most side-by-sides also can accommodate twins, while some in-lines do not. -Cons: side-by-sides are harder—sometimes near impossible—to get through narrow doorways and aisles and tricky to steer through crowded areas. And while some parents see having their two children right next to each other as a pro, others don't.

In-line strollers, sometimes also called tandem strollers, are single-file seats with one seat in front of the other. The two seats can be the same height, but often in-line strollers have what's termed as "stadium seating" with the back seat raised higher than the front for better viewing.

• Pros: In-line strollers fit more easily through narrow doorways and aisles. They also fold more compactly than side-by-sides and may have more configurations.
• Cons: The seats on in-line strollers often don't have the same amenities. One seat may recline more than the other or offer more legroom, a cup holder or the ability to attach an infant car seat. Some parents also find in-lines trickier to turn and maneuver than side-by-sides due to their length and because they tend to be more front-heavy.

Convertible strollers are strollers that can be used as a single stroller or converted into a double (or even a triple) by adding on a second seat and accessories. The majority of convertible strollers are in-lines, but there are a few side-by-side convertibles on the market.

• Pros: Convertible strollers grow with your family. They allow you to purchase just one stroller then add on a second seat, a stroller board and other accessories as your family grows.
• Cons: Convertible strollers tend to be more expensive than traditional double strollers. And while all convertibles can hold two kids or more, not all can accommodate twins.

The best double stroller for your family really depends on your personal situation. Consider how you'll use a double stroller most often.

• Do you live in a crowded city or in an apartment building with narrow doorways, or will you mostly be using your double stroller in the suburbs or in a more rural area?
• If you need it for two infants, do both seats accommodate infant car seats?
• If you need it for a toddler and a baby, does the stroller have a high enough weight limit to accommodate older children?

These are the kind of questions to ask yourself before purchasing a stroller made for two.

How We Choose Our Best Double Strollers

We asked thousands of real Babylist families about the baby products they love the most, then took the top products they shared with us and added our own research and insight to tell you about the best double strollers.

Do you think this content is helpful? Let our editors know!

Best Side-by-Side Double Stroller

The Scoop

• Quick, easy fold
• Near-flat seat recline
• Forever Air rubber tires

What Our Experts Say

Baby Jogger strollers are known for their easy, one-handed folds—and this double version is no exception. With just one handle pull, this side-by-side stroller folds down quickly and completely flat, so you can spend less time trying to put away your stroller and more time chasing after your now free-to-roam kiddos. Parents rave about the maneuverability and that it fits through 36-inch doorways.

What's Worth Considering

This stroller can hold one car seat with an adaptor, but can't hold two, so it's not a great choice for twins. (For multiples, check out the City Select Lux, a convertible stroller that offers up to 20 riding possibilities, including adding two infant car seats.) The storage basket is also on the smaller side and tough to reach from behind.

What Babylist Parents Say

"It's a bit big, and you should make sure it fits in your car first. But it maneuvers so well and makes it easy to stroll with two kids." -Kenna

Additional Specs

Stroller Weight	36.5 lbs
Child Weight Limit	50 lbs per seat
Dimensions	40.7"x 29.25" x 42.25"

Best Convertible Stroller

The Scoop

• Can accommodate up to three kids
• Lots of configurations (including for twins)
• Smooth ride and lots of high-end features

What Our Experts Say

The Vista is a high-quality, extremely durable convertible stroller that's just as popular with parents who use it in its single mode as it is with those who use it as a double. It's one of the best strollers around for a growing family, built to accommodate up to three kids with the addition of Uppa's Rumble Seat and a Ride-Along Board. (It also works for twins; it can accommodate two bassinets, two car seats or two toddler seats at the same time.) It's pricey, but it comes with a lot: a bassinet, a rain/bug shield, undercarriage storage for up to 30 pounds of stuff and a toddler seat for kids up to 50 pounds. It's also beautifully designed, boasts an impressive suspension system for a smooth ride and is sturdy enough to withstand years of heavy use.

What's Worth Considering

There's no getting around the fact that a fully loaded Vista is tough to push and steer. It's especially front-heavy when a toddler sits in the bottom seat. It's also pricey and not super easy to break down.

What Babylist Parents Say

"We love it—both us and the kids. It's a good value. The ability to add on the toddler standing board is very cool, and it's easy to fold. The only drawback is it's difficult to put the folded stroller into our trunk." -Lisa S.

Additional Specs

Stroller Weight	26.6 lbs
Child Weight Limit	50 lbs per seat
Dimensions	Newborn up to 65 lbs

Best Luxury for Less Double Stroller

The Scoop

• High-end features at an affordable price point
• 18+ different seat configurations
• Modern, fun colors and fabrics

What Our Experts Say

You don't have to spend four figures on a fun + functional convertible stroller. Mockingbird is a direct-to-consumer brand that skips the retail markups so they can bring you a luxury stroller for a whole lot less. Sharing many of the same features as UPPAbaby's Vista stroller, the Mockingbird Single-to-Double boasts 18+ configurations and a one-handed fold at about a third of the price. Both seats are the same size and can be switched to either forward- or parent-facing. This stroller works from birth with the addition of a car seat (just remember you'll need adapters) or the Mockingbird Carriage (bassinet) or Infant Seat Insert, both sold separately. And we love all of the fabric canopy color and pattern options.

What's Worth Considering

As of now there's no option to add a third child, but Mockingbird is working on a ride-along board that's coming soon. And as with most tandem convertibles, this stroller can be tough to push and steer when it's fully loaded with two kids.

Additional Specs

Stroller Weight	26.5 lbs; 35 lbs with two seats
Child Weight Limit	45 lbs per seat
Dimensions	25.5" x 40" x 33"

Best Double Travel Stroller

The Scoop

• Lightweight
• Quick, compact fold perfect for on-the-go
• Disney-approved

What Our Experts Say

Traveling with two kids can be stressful, but choosing a travel stroller doesn't have to be. The Twin+ has all of the features we look for in a double travel stroller: it's light, narrow, features a quick, one-handed compact fold and comes with a child snack holder and parent cup holder. At only 19 pounds and 29" wide, it easily fits through standard doorways and is Disney-approved. There's even an option to turn it into a stroller for three (or four!) by adding a triple or a quad seat.

What's Worth Considering

While pushing this stroller on (mostly) flat surfaces is easy, it's not so great when it comes to bumpier terrain. There's no option to attach car seats and the seats don't recline completely flat, so it's not a great choice for newborns.

What Babylist Parents Say

"This stroller is everything! It is lightweight, allowing me to easily get it out the SUV, glides so smoothly across the ground and folds practically flat! Hands down the best stroller we've owned!" -Amy

Additional Specs

Stroller Weight	19 lbs
Child Weight Limit	45 lbs per seat
Dimensions	40.25" x 29" x 33"

Best Lightweight Double Stroller

The Scoop

• Lightest tandem on the market
• Good for baby + toddler
• Compact frame

What Our Experts Say

Not all double strollers have to be big, bulky and heavy. Weighing in at just 23.5 lbs, the Joovy Caboose is the lightest tandem stroller on the market and one of the most compact. It's built for a baby and a toddler, with room for the baby in a car seat or five-point harness up front and an older child in the back either sitting or standing on a sliding bench seat. Parents especially love the stability of the standing platform, much more so than stroller board attachments found on many other brands.

What's Worth Considering

If your little one is, let's say…willful, the back bench option may not be a great option. Joovy does sell a rear seat attachment for children under two and a half years old who aren't yet ready to stand.

What Babylist Parents Say

"Handles very well, and it sets up and breaks down easily, and it's not too bulky. The storage underneath the stroller is too small though." -S. Holmes

Additional Specs

Stroller Weight	22 lbs
Child Weight Limit	Newborn up to 65 lbs
Dimensions	Newborn up to 65 lbs

Best Double Jogging Stroller

The Scoop

• Effortlessly handles any terrain
• 9-position adjustable handlebar
• Tons of storage

What Our Experts Say

Jogging with one kid is impressive enough, but jogging with two? You rock. The double version of Bob's popular running stroller will help you get your sweat on with its impressive mountain-bike style suspension system, comfortable seats and nine-position adjustable handlebar for parents or caregivers of any height. There's tons of storage—both under the stroller and in any of the ten pockets—and XL sun canopies so you can get out in any type of weather. It also pairs with many popular infant car seats and fits through most doorways.

What's Worth Considering

Although this double jogger does fit through most doorways, it's a big, bulky stroller—so be sure to do some measuring before you buy, especially if you'll be loading it in and out of your trunk on the regular.

Looking for something a bit sleeker that can still handle any terrain? You may want to also check out the Thule Urban Glide 2 Double Stroller.

Additional Specs

Stroller Weight	33.1 lbs
Child Weight Limit	50 lbs per seat
Dimensions	48" x 30.5" x 33.5-50.5"

Best Affordable Double Stroller

The Scoop

• Budget friendly
• Lots of accessories
• Bench or standing option for toddlers

What Our Experts Say

This budget-friendly double stroller pick will save your wallet without sacrificing on features. The Duo comes with a toddler seat, rear seat and trays for everyone, including parents. There are 12 riding options for two children from infants to older kids. Toddlers love the bench and standing platform in the back—they can choose to sit or stand—and parents love the huge storage basket and easy, compact fold.

What's Worth Considering

The Ready2Grow is best for two kids of different ages (although you can use it with two car seats). Seats are cramped when filled with two toddlers, and the rear seat can only be used in the parent-facing position.

What Babylist Parents Say

"Absolutely love it, but it's hard to get up and down stairs. I also wish the handle was higher—I find myself hunched over when pushing or kicking the platform below." -Jessica

Additional Specs

Stroller Weight	26 lbs
Child Weight Limit	Front seat up to 50 lbs; rear seat up to 40 lbs
Dimensions	25.63" x 48" x 47.38"

Best Luxury Double Stroller

The Scoop

• Single, double or twin mode + countless configurations
• Incredibly easy to push and steer
• Packed with custom, high-end features

What Our Experts Say

This convertible side-by-side stroller is a definite splurge—but considering its amazing maneuverability, lightweight frame and countless custom options, many parents don't seem to mind. The Donkey accommodates three setups depending on what your family looks like: single, double and twins. There are countless combos and configurations within each setup, like bassinet or infant car seat + luggage basket, two infant car seats, two bassinets, and a bassinet + a toddler seat just to name a few. Next to the smooth ride and insane maneuverability (it really is impressive, we promise) is how narrow the Donkey is; you'll easily get through doorways or down aisles, making it especially ideal for city living.

What's Worth Considering

This stroller is really expensive, especially when you're equipping it for multiple kiddos. (If you're looking for a similar, cheaper option, head over to the Contours Element Side-by-Side Single-to-Double Stroller; it's a bit more affordable and also pretty great.) The Donkey is also a pretty big hassle to break down.

What Babylist Parents Say

"I love that you can attach two bassinets or two toddler seats or you can use one of each. You can also make the stroller compact so that only one seat fits and there's a little side carrier for your bag or small dog." -Traci

Additional Specs

Stroller Weight	33 lbs (with one seat)
Child Weight Limit	48 lbs per seat
Dimensions	45.6" x 23.6" x 40.9"

Best Double Stroller Wagon

The Scoop

• Stroller + wagon hybrid
• Tackles any terrain
• Very versatile

What Our Experts Say

We know what you're thinking: this isn't a double stroller. But wait! The Pivot Xplore is a wagon + stroller hybrid and a super fun way to transport two kids when you're on the go. With one quick flip of the handle, the Xplore transforms from a wagon into a stroller that's suitable for kids from 6 months up to five years old. (You can get even more versatility by adding in a toddler seat and a car seat adapter, sold separately.) The all-terrain wheels tackle almost any surface and the wagon features a telescoping handle to accommodate different heights.

What's Worth Considering

The Xplore doesn't handle all that well on the beach, especially on softer sand. For a beach-ready stroller wagon check out the Veer Cruiser.

Additional Specs

Stroller Weight	34 lbs
Child Limit	Holds two children up to 55 lbs each (120 lbs total with storage)
Dimensions	45" x 27" x 39"

Best Eco-Friendly Double Stroller

The Scoop

• Environmentally friendly
• Dual car seat and bassinet compatible
• All-wheel suspension

What Our Experts Say

Bumbleride has kept one million plastic water bottles out of landfills since 2011. If that's not reason enough to love them, we're not sure what is. (Turns out their strollers are pretty great too.) The Indie Twin is an environmentally friendly stroller that's great for twins or for kids of different ages. This side-by-side works from birth either with the fully reclining seats + adjustable footrest or with the addition of two car seats or two bassinets (sold separately) and features all-wheel suspension for a smooth ride. There's a one-step fold and gripped handles for carrying plus lots of convenient features like large canopies each with a peekaboo window and a roomy cargo basket.

What's Worth Considering

The biggest complaint from parents is head and legroom; lots of parents wish there was a bit more, especially those with toddlers on the taller side.

Additional Specs

Stroller Weight	36 lbs
Child Weight Limit	55 lbs per seat
Dimensions	36" x 30" x 47"

Other Double Strollers We Love

• The Mountain Buggy Nano Duo Buggy is a lightweight option that makes a solid choice if you're looking for a double travel stroller. It weighs in at about 20 pounds and is easy to fold and carry. It's also newborn compatible.
• The Baby Trend Sit N Stand Ultra Tandem Stroller is an affordable choice if you're looking for multiple seating options for a baby and a toddler. Older toddlers love the independence of the standing bench and parents love the one-handed fold.
• Joovy's Scooter X2 Double Stroller is a side-by-side loved for its narrow width, one-handed fold and XL wheels.

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Car Seat and Stroller for 2 Year Old

Source: https://www.babylist.com/hello-baby/best-double-strollers

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