Choosing a multi-child stroller

Only two hands and two or three little ones? A multi-child stroller is what you need!
As with single strollers, there are many brands on the market that offer various types of multi-child strollers. There are many things to consider before purchasing this kind stroller.

To start with, you will have to decide what type of multi-child stroller would fit you best. For more information consult our article 'How To Choose a Stroller' or find more information on every single type of strollers by using the left-hand menu. However keep in mind that there is no such thing as the perfect stroller. Most families have more than one stroller so they can change them depending on their activities. If you decide to go for only one stroller you will unfortunately have to put up with some inconveniences.

Deciding whether you need a double or triple stroller is not a problem, but you have to think of the seating design of the stroller.

Stroller for 2
There are three main designs here: tandem strollers (with seats in front of each other), side-by-side strollers (children are seating next to each other), and sit-and-stand strollers.

There are advantages and disadvantages in both models, although most parents tend to prefer side-by-side strollers since it helps to avoid bickering between the children once they are at toddler age. Moreover manufacturers are now making side-by-side strollers which are narrow enough to go through most doors. The side-by-side strollers are suitable for twins but also for a baby and his/her older sibling.

If you would prefer a tandem stroller (also known as a stadium stroller), whether you have twins or not will make the difference! Here you will have 2 choices: the twin and the double strollers.
Twin strollers are made for children of the same age and do not have the same features as double strollers. For example a twin stroller will have two fully reclining seats and you should also be able to attach two infant car seats to it.
On a double stroller, the older child usually sits in the front seat because it does not recline fully.

The sit-and-stand stroller is great if you have a baby and a young child. They consist of one padded and secure seat, and a platform to sit or stand on for the oldest child.

Stroller for 3
Here again, there are two seating designs available: tandem and side-by-side.
As for double strollers, the tandem-designed strollers will be quite easy to maneuver because they have pretty much the same width as a single stroller. However, most of the time, only the back seat can be reclined.

The side-by-side triple strollers let the three children have an unobstructed view of their surroundings. The 3 seats can be reclined to give maximum comfort. Unfortunately, they are very hard to maneuver in tight places such as doorways and narrow sidewalks, because they are very wide.

Strollers for 4 or more
Quadruple and quintuple strollers are available on the market, but they are very few. They are very useful if you have lots of young children or you are running a daycare.
For these strollers, you should look for the same features as you would want in any double or triple stroller.

Another point to consider is the price of the multi-child stroller. Twins and triplets tends to spend more time in their stroller than single babies so it might be a good idea to spend a little more money to buy a high quality stroller that will last a long time and to make sure your little ones are comfortable. The cheapest multi-child strollers cost about $150 but it might be worth spending twice this price if you want your stroller to last a few years without too much hassle. Moreover high-quality multi-child strollers have a higher resale value and are also more likely to get sold!

Before you buy a multi-child stroller
Make sure it folds easily and fits into your car!
Read customer's reviews online to see what people think about their strollers.
If possible, test drive strollers in a stroller shop near your home.
Buy online! The internet is where you will find the best deals.