Searching for a double stroller that’s super narrow, compact, lightweight and easy to travel with? The Summer Infant 3D Pac CS+ double stroller has all these features, plus great storage, takes a car seat and has a simple one-handed fold to boot. Yes, this stroller was built for travel. Keep reading our Summer Infant 3D Pac CS+ double stroller review for more…

The Summer Infant 3D Pac CS+ Double is a new double “tri-fold” on the stroller scene, and we’re VERY excited about it! It’s another awesome pick for traveling with two — and a cheaper option than the Nano Duo. 

Size & Weight

At 23 lbs and 30 inches wide, the Summer Infant 3D Pac CS+ Double Stroller is extremely lightweight and fits easily through standard doorways. It’s also Disney-size approved, and great for maneuvering around crowds of people there or any other theme parks, busy/crowded places, etc. 

Car Seat Compatibility 

It’s very rare to find a compact travel stroller that accepts a car seat. 

The Summer Infant 3D Pac CS+ Double Stroller accepts one of the following car seats (bummer for those of us with infant twins, I know): SummerAffirm 335, Graco SnugRide Click Connect 35, Graco SnugRide SnugLock 35, Chicco Keyfit 30, Chicco Fit2 and Baby Trend Secure Snap Gear 35 Infant Car Seats. 

*Bonus: you don’t need to use an adapter to attach a car seat to the stroller. Woohoo! 

Seats

This is where it gets exciting! Again, your typical lightweight travel stroller is barebones in the comfort department. Not this one! 

The 3D Pac CS+ Double can hold children up to 50 lbs per seat (100 lbs total!), and is suitable for kiddos 6 months and older without the use of a car seat. Each seat has a multi-position recline (about halfway down, 45 degrees) with individually adjustable leg rests, and individual 3-panel canopies with sun visors and peekaboo windows. 

The seats are both equipped with a nicely padded, adjustable 5-point harness, and measure about 27 inches from the seat to the top of the canopy — between that and the 50 lb weight capacity, this double will last you for a while! 

Each seat also features a mesh storage pocket for your kiddos to stash snacks, water bottles, little toys, etc. This is a nice (parent-favorite) feature, as it means they won’t constantly be asking you to hand them these things!  

Canopy, Basket, Handlebar, Brake

Again, the individually-operated canopies on the 3D Pac CS+ Double are three-paneled, with flip-out sun visors and peekaboo windows. They aren’t the hugest canopies in the world, but for a travel stroller, very impressive!

Parents: you’ll appreciate that the peekaboo windows are mesh — awesome for airflow in warmer climates (warm weather vacations, here you come!). 

There’s actually a shocking amount of storage on this travel stroller, including a large underseat storage basket that can fit a lot!!! It also has child and parent cup holders, parent storage pockets on the seatbacks, and the previously mentioned in-seat mesh pockets. 

The handlebar is foam-padded; however, it’s not adjustable, meaning this stroller may not be ideal for either really tall, or particularly short parents. 

This stroller features a simple-to-engage, one-step brake that is summer-shoe friendly (again — fab for those who live in or like vacationing to the warm weather!). 

Wheels/Maneuverability

The wheels on this stroller are meant solely for flat, smooth, paved surfaces. If you live in or are planning to travel to an area with hilly or rocky terrain, this is probably not the double stroller for you. That said, it maneuvers great on smooth terrain, such as paved sidewalks, theme parks, the mall, etc. 

Fold

Another area where this stroller shines: it has a one-handed, compact fold, and a carry strap to sling it over your shoulder for easy transport. To fold it, just press down on the grey button located on the handlebar, while simultaneously twisting it the bar… and voila.  

Once folded, it locks into place and self-stands. Note that some reviewers say they are unable to fold this stroller with just one hand, and others say it’s not as compact of a folded package as a double umbrella, but you don’t get all these features with a double umbrella. 

Bottom Line

The Summer Infant 3D Pac CS+ Double Stroller makes for a fabulous option for traveling (or even everyday use) with two. This economy travel stroller is lightweight, folds compactly and still has most of the features parents want in a stroller, including storage, good canopies and a super easy fold. It also takes an infant car seat. But remember, this is an economy stroller that may not have the highest build quality, especially compared to the Mountain Buggy Nano Duo. 

The downsides, of course, are that the handlebar isn’t adjustable — a bummer for super tall parents. Like most lightweight strollers, the wheels are made for smooth surfaces and won’t do well on any kind of terrain. 

The post Summer Infant 3D Pac CS+ Double Stroller Review appeared first on Lucie's List.

If you’re looking for a budget double stroller that’s great for travel (or every day throw-in-the-car use), and has plenty of solid features, check out our Kolcraft Cloud Plus Lightweight Double Stroller review. This stroller is not sexy, but it does hit some high points — all for around $200.

The reason budget strollers are so popular for travel is because if they get damaged during transit or travel, you’re not ruining your nice, high-end stroller…

Kolcraft Cloud Plus Lightweight Double Stroller Review: Size & Weight

The Kolcraft Cloud Plus weighs in at just 23 lbs (lighter than some single strollers!), and can hold kiddos up to 40 lbs per seat (80 lbs combined). No, that’s not a huge weight limit, but this should definitely get you through your toddler years. 

This stroller measures 31 inches wide, which should get you through most standard doorways, and it’s Disney-size approved. Yay! 

Car Seat Compatibility 

None — ha! 

Seats

The seats on the Cloud Plus Double feature a 5-point safety harness, and are about 12.5 inches wide, which is a fairly generous width. Something to note, however, is that the seats only recline slightly, about 30 degrees from vertical. It’s not going to be the deeper recline you see in some of the nicer travel strollers.

If your babes need a deeper recline to nap comfortably… it may not happen with this stroller. Just ‘sayin. 

Canopy, Storage, Brake

The Cloud Plus Double has decent, independently operated three-tier canopies (with mesh peek-a-boo windows for added airflow and to check on those babies). Not the biggest canopies in the world, but not the smallest either.

Also nice is that this stroller has actual usable storage: there are two large-ish storage baskets under the stroller that, depending on its size, will probably fit your diaper bag, as well as some other smaller items such as blankets, sun hats, toys, snacks, diapers and wipes, etc. 

The stroller also comes with little mesh pockets in the seats for kiddos to store small snacks, etc., a parent tray which includes two drink holders (mama needs her coffee, people!), and removable child trays with sippy cup and juice box holders. 

Yes, these individual child trays (with built-in cupholders) are a real crowd pleaser!

Note that the handlebar is not adjustable for height, which doesn’t make it the best option for tall parents. 

Wheels/Maneuverability

This Kolcraft Cloud Plus Double works best on paved, smooth surfaces — like flat sidewalks, theme parks, etc. It won’t serve you very well on any kind of rougher or grassy terrain. But, it does offer front wheel suspension, which makes it an easier push for parents and a nicer, smoother ride for the littles. 

Fold

Parents really appreciate this stroller’s self-standing fold, which, along with its lightness, make it a great choice for taking on vacations. This stroller is very easy to fold, but it is not a particularly compact fold, like a double umbrella stroller or a tri-fold. 

Bottom Line

This stroller is very highly rated, given its attainable price, and very popular for travel. Although the build is very basic, it offers some awesome features, such as great storage, good canopies, an easy, self-standing fold, and parent/child trays galore.

The few downsides are the minimal recline, the non-adjustable handlebar, no option to use a car seat, and the basic wheels that really want to be on smooth, paved surfaces.

*Overall, though, it’s a decent travel stroller for a very decent price — and you won’t lose sleep if something happens to it during your trip. 

The post Kolcraft Cloud Plus Lightweight Double Stroller Review appeared first on Lucie's List.

Whether you’re looking for the easiest double stroller to fly with and cart through the airport, the best double all-terrain for hiking or camping, or the double stroller with the most compact fold, we’ve got you covered. We’ve compiled this list so you can pick the best double stroller for travel for your specific needs. See also: Traveling with Twins

For simplicity’s sake, we’ve broken down the best double strollers for travel into 3 distinct categories: 

1. Double Umbrellas 
2. Tri-Fold Doubles
3. Lightweight Regular Doubles

While each category touts different features and serves different purposes, each is great for travel: they’re all lightweight and easy to fold, carry and maneuver. *Note that we didn’t include anything in the tandem stroller department because the fold on most tandems tends to be too unwieldy (long) for travel, though many sit n stands tend to be lightweight and okay for travel.

Without further ado we’ve picked our Top 10 double strollers for travel… and here they are:

Umbrella-Style Doubles

Double umbrella strollers are inherently good for travel because they are lightweight, fold easily and compactly, fit in most trunks, and can be gate-checked on most airplanes. They also all meet Disney-size requirements. Yay!

The big downside to a double umbrella stroller is that they usually don’t come with a whole lot of features, and their storage space (or lack thereof) and smaller canopies leave something to be desired. Also, you definitely need to push a double umbrella stroller with two hands because of the separated handles.

With that, here are our favorite double umbrella travel strollers, listed in order of lowest to highest price. 

1. Delta Children LX Side-by-Side Stroller ~ $74- Barebones Budget Pick

This double umbrella stroller is only 18 lbs (!!) and is a great barebones, no-frills budget double umbrella that’s awesome for travel. It folds easily and compactly, comes with two hanging storage bags on the backs of each seat plus two parent cupholders, and each seat has a 5-point safety harness, though not the best in the sun canopy department (very small).

Read more about the Delta Children LX Side-by-Side Stroller here. 

2. UPPAbaby G-Link 2 ~ $349 — Upscale Pick

At only 22 lbs, the G-Link 2 is incredibly light and compact (great for pushing through airports, storing in overhead compartments, throwing in your trunk, etc.). Plus, unlike many of the other double umbrella strollers out there, this one actually has some nice, upscale features. For instance, it’s equipped with a three-panel sun canopy, and a fairly large and accessible under-seat basket that can hold up to 10 lbs! Bonus: the backs of each seat have a pocket to store your small essentials, such as a phone, wallet, chapstick, paci’s, etc.

Read our full UPPAbaby G-Link 2 review – or the overall summary below:

Excerpt of Review:

“With its lightweight aluminum frame, the G-Link 2 is one of the easiest double strollers to schlep up and down the stairs [like. we. do.].

The width is also something to note: at 28.5″ (much narrower than most), it’s sure to fit through any doorway. And despite becoming lighter, each seat can still hold up to 55 lbs of baby meat (for a total of 110 lbs), which is very generous. 

We also love that each seat operates and reclines independently. You know, for when one kiddo wants to sit up and see the world while the other one wants to snooze the day away.” 

KEEP READING about the UPPAbaby G-Link 2

Tri-Fold-Style Doubles

Tri-fold strollers are a newer class of stroller on the scene. In addition to being lightweight, they fold into thirds (most other strollers in the world fold in half).

This makes for a pretty compact fold, which is inherently good for travel. While the fold is not quite as compact as umbrella strollers, tri-folds often come with all (or some) of the features of a regular full-size stroller, like a large storage basket. Double tri-folds are brand new on the scene – at present, there are only 3 of them on the market.

In short, they are the most compact, yet full-featured strollers out there. They are also lightweight.

1. Summer Infant 3D Pac CS+ Double Stroller ~ $212 — Economy Tri-Fold Pick

The Summer Infant 3D Pac CS+ double is a new double tri-fold in the double travel stroller scene — and we’re VERY excited about it! It’s another awesome pick for traveling with two (and a cheaper option than the Nano Duo — see below). This stroller also accepts an infant car seat!

Read our full Summer Infant 3D Pac CS+ Stroller Review – or the overall summary below:

Excerpt of Review:

Searching for a double stroller that’s super narrow, compact, lightweight and easy to travel with? The Summer Infant 3D Pac CS+ double stroller has all these features, plus great storage, takes a car seat and has a simple one-handed fold to boot. Yes, this stroller was built for travel. Keep reading our Summer Infant 3D Pac CS+ double stroller review for more…

The Summer Infant 3D Pac CS+ Double is a new double “tri-fold” on the stroller scene, and we’re VERY excited about it! It’s another awesome pick for traveling with two — and a cheaper option than the Nano Duo. 

At 23 lbs and 30 inches wide, the Summer Infant 3D Pac CS+ Double Stroller is extremely lightweight and fits easily through standard doorways. It’s also Disney-size approved, and great for maneuvering around crowds of people there or any other theme parks, busy/crowded places, etc.

KEEP READING about the Summer Infant 3D Pac CS+ Double Stroller

2. Joovy Kooper X2 ~ $459 — Middle of the Line Tri-Fold Stroller Pick

*currently out of stock

The Joovy KooperX2 is brand new to the tri-fold, side-by-side double stroller scene, and we’re totally here for it. Since this stroller is so new, we wanted to share our preliminary thoughts before doing a major deep dive — but rest assured, what we’ve seen so far, we really like. You can also watch Joovy’s quick video overviewing some of the stroller’s highlights here. 

The Joovy Kooper x2 replaces the Joovy Twin Groove Ultralight, which was a double umbrella stroller. Generally speaking, this new class of “tri-fold” strollers is causing the double umbrella body style to become obsolete, as tri-folds are generally just as compact and lightweight, yet offer features you’d find in a full-featured stroller.

The Kooper X2 comes in six different striking colorways: Black, Forged Iron, Glacier (turquoise), Olive, Paprika and Sand (see colorways below), and is suitable for babies 3+ months all the way through 50 lbs (!!) — you’ll get years of use out of it. 

For comparison’s sake, the Summer Infant 3D Pac CS+ Double — another tri-fold double — can also hold children up to 50 lbs, but the Mountain Buggy Nano Duo can only hold 33 lbs per seat. Though not a tri-fold double, but another Joovy double side-by-side with other similar features, the Scooter X2 can hold 45 lbs per seat.  Thus, like the 3D Pac C+ and the Scooter X2, the Kooper X2 is great for older and younger children alike.  

However, while the 3D Pac C+ accepts one infant car seat and the Nano Duo accepts two infant car seats, the Kooper X2 doesn’t accept any car seats at all. Bummer. (For reference, neither does the Joovy Scooter X2.)

Weighing in at 28 lbs, the Kooper X2 is very lightweight, making it easy to push one-handed and carry up and down stairs (for apartment and/or city dwellers). However, as compared to others in its class, the Kooper X2 is on the heavier end. The Summer Infant 3D Pac CS+ Double weighs 23 lbs, while the Mountain Buggy Nano Duo weighs only 20 lbs. Just something to note if you’re sensitive to the weight of the stroller.

That said, people LOVE the Kooper X2’s easy, one-handed fold, and its compact folded size — it folds into thirds which means it can fit in any trunk with room to spare, and it’s great for travel and can easily be stored. Bonus: it self-stands once folded. 

But, in our opinion, here’s the best part about this stroller: it folds down WITH its two included snack trays attached. As in, you do not have to remove the child trays before folding down the Kooper X2. They stay on ALL THE TIME! How awesome and convenient is that?! 

Good for naps on the go, the Kooper X2’s seats have fairly deep (but not totally flat), adjustable reclines and 3-position leg rests. In addition, the large UPF 50 canopies are individually-operated, with peekaboo windows, and offer all-weather protection. Note that the Scooter X2 only has one canopy for both seats — this can cause major problems when one child wants some sun and the other prefers shade (been there, done that… ). 

Like the Scooter X2, each seatback has a mesh cup holder and a zipper pocket to store small belongings, such as keys, phone, wallet, etc. 

Some other notable features of the Kooper x2 include: a large storage basket that can hold up 22 lbs (the Scooter X2 also has a humongous storage basket); a one step linked parking brake (summer shoe friendly, yes!); it’s Disney-size approved; and it boasts the biggest wheels of any compact double stroller on the market — wheels are made from EVR, a mix of rubber and EVA plastic (which Joovy will replace for you if you wear them out). Note, however, that like its competition, the wheels are not all-terrain — this stroller rolls best over flat, even ground. 

Downsides

Now let’s get into some of the not-so-great things about the Joovy Kooper X2. One of the most common user complaints is about the brake — many commenters (especially tall folks) say it’s easy to accidentally step on the brake when strolling. One user reported that she often steps on the brake while pushing the stroller, abruptly stopping it and startling both her and her child. Eek! 

Another common user issue is that the seats don’t sit completely tall, even in the most upright position. This can make it tough for smaller kids to get comfortable, reach their snack trays and see out (note this is a common problem with strollers in this class). Likewise, the seats don’t recline to a fully flat position either. 

Lastly, some parents note that the seatback cup holder is very flimsy (no one wants a hot cup of coffee spilled all over their legs, amirite?), and that the storage pockets located on the backs of the seats are too small to hold much of anything besides a phone, keys or a diaper or two (that said, the underseat storage is huge, so… there’s that). 

All in all, though brand new on the market, the Joovy Kooper X2 is already very highly-reviewed. For parents of two kids (up to a whopping 50 lbs!) who do a lot of traveling, and/or don’t have a ton of trunk or storage space to stash a double stroller, we definitely think you should check out the Joovy Kooper X2. 

3. Mountain Buggy Nano Duo ~ $599 — High Quality Tri-Fold/Everyday Stroller Pick

The MB Nano Duo is only 20 lbs and, thanks to its tri-fold design, makes it a VERY compact double stroller. The Nano Duo truly is your quintessential “traveling with two” stroller. Bonus: it takes up to two infant car seats! It’s also really just a great overall twin stroller for newborns, or a baby and a toddler.

Read our full Mountain Buggy Nano Duo Review – or the overall summary below:

Excerpt of Review:

“The single Mountain Buggy Nano was one of the first “tri-fold” strollers to ever hit the market. “Tri-folds” are the smallest and most compact of the lightweight strollers; they are also the lightest in weight, so we are super excited about this review.

We dubbed the single Nano the “tiny workhorse” of strollers, so we were ecstatic to hear of a double version of this lightweight wonder. We’ve never seen one before… could it be done??

If you have twins or small children closer in age, this lightweight, compact side-by-side double stroller may be just what you need. While the Mountain Buggy Nano Duo certainly isn’t your all-terrain or heavy-duty double jogger, it is ideal for travel and everyday car errands.”

KEEP READING about the Mountain Buggy Nano Duo

Lightweight (Regular) Doubles

Even without the slim umbrella fold, these strollers are lightweight, quality doubles with some nice usability features that make them solid picks for travel (though they are not the most compact type of double stroller).

1. Kolcraft Cloud Plus Lightweight Double Stroller ~ $209 — Economy Pick with Solid Features

This lightweight (23 lbs) budget double stroller has more features and storage than you’d expect, plus an easy fold making it awesome for traveling with two kids.

Read our full Kolcraft Cloud Plus Double Stroller Review – or the overall summary below:

Excerpt of Review:

“If you’re looking for a budget double stroller that’s great for travel (or every day throw-in-the-car use), and has plenty of solid features, check out our Kolcraft Cloud Plus Lightweight Double Stroller review. This stroller is not sexy, but it does hit some high points — all for under $200.

The Kolcraft Cloud Plus weighs in at just 23 lbs (lighter than some single strollers!), and can hold kiddos up to 40 lbs per seat (80 lbs combined). No, that’s not a huge weight limit, but this should definitely get you through your toddler years. 

This stroller measures 31 inches wide, which should get you through most standard doorways, and it’s Disney-size approved. Yay!”

KEEP READING about the Kolcraft Cloud Plus Lightweight Double Stroller

Consider this: 

Jeep Destination Ultralight Side-by-Side Double

Price: $228
Weight: 28.66 lbs

The Jeep Destination Ultralight SBS Double stroller is another fairly barebones, lightweight double that generally compares to the Kolcraft Cloud Plus, minus a few key details which I’ll discuss below.

Like the Kolcraft, each seat can hold up to 40 lbs. That’s not bad for such a lightweight double. Other key features include nice-sized pop-out canopies with SPF 50 and peekaboo windows; swing-away bars that make it easy for kids to get in and out of stroller seats; a compact, self-standing fold and carry strap for easy schlepping (great for travel!); and 7-inch swivel lock front wheels and 10-inch back wheels with suspension for a smoother, more comfortable ride.

It also features independent multi-position reclining seats equipped with 5-point safety harnesses and adjustable footrests (note: this is is one area in which the Jeep shines over the Kolcraft — the Kolcraft doesn’t recline very far, and does not have adjustable footrests).

However, like the Kolcraft, the Jeep does not accept car seats. Therefore, babies should be about 6+ months to ride (and have solid neck control).

Where the Kolcraft beats the Jeep:

• At $162 it’s less expensive (Jeep is $257).
• At 23 lbs it’s lighter (Jeep 28.6).
• Kolcraft comes standard with snack trays and parent cupholders, while the Jeep does not have either.

Bottom Line: The Jeep Destination is an easy-to-maneuver, lightweight stroller that’s great for travel (and Disney!). At approximately 30 inches wide, it will fit through standard doorways. It also has solid under seat storage and is easy to fold and unfold. One Amazon reviewer commented that this stroller is a “hidden gem.”

2. Zoe Twin+ ~ $529 — Lightweight, full featured and expandable

At 19 lbs, the ZOE Twin+ is an incredibly lightweight stroller that will comply with all airline gate-check weight limits (yes, even on American Airlines). It’s Disney-size approved, has an easy and compact fold, and the added bonus of versatility — it can grow to a triple or quad with an expandable tandem add-on seat.

It’s great for travel due to the large underseat storage basket, large four-panel sun canopies (!!), and comes with two kid cup holders, a parent cup holder and one kid snack holder. Parents love this stroller for travel and even everyday use. 

Read our full Zoe Twin+ Stroller Review – or the overall summary below:

Excerpt of Review:

“When The Twin+ (Zoe XL2) stroller (which comes in “classic” and “luxe“) first came out there was so much buzz about it they couldn’t seem to keep it in stock! We wanted to know if it was really all that, so we picked one up and gave it a whirl. Note that in the Twin+ stroller review, we will be discussing the “classic” version of The Twin+.

Yes, a lightweight, side-by-side stroller in this price range is every parent’s dream.

While the Zoe brand is newer to the stroller scene, the founders are not. They’re a small, family business who’ve combined their fashion design expertise along with their baby product experience and set out to make an affordable, double stroller that parents of twins would love. They recently re-named their strollers — for instance, this one used to be called the Zoe XL2 Best V2, and now it’s The Twin+. The Twin+ is much easier to say (and remember ;-).”

KEEP READING about the Twin+ Stroller

Consider This: Connect for Babyzen YOYO²

• Price of Babyzen YOYO² frame, cushion and canopy (sold together): $449
• Price of Babyzen YOYO Connect: $379

Similar to the concept of the Zoe Twin+, Babyzen has recently introduced the Connect, which, like its name implies, is an additional stroller frame/seat that hooks on to the back of select models of the YOYO². (So, if you already own the YOYO², this might be a good option for you!). Good for twins and siblings of differing ages, together the Connect and YOYO² offer 5 different setups to accommodate two children from birth to toddler, and can hold kiddos up to 48.5 lbs. Super compact and lightweight — and small enough to fit in most overhead bins — this is another solid option for travel.

3. Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Double ~ $469 — Lightweight, Narrow and Sturdy Build, for Younger/Small Kids

This bad boy is the doubles version of Baby Jogger’s travel stroller, the City Tour. At just 23 lbs and 26 inches wide it’s incredibly light and narrow. Though it doesn’t take car seats or come with accessories, the City Tour 2 Double is a great travel and everyday stroller for smaller, lightweight kiddos. Something else to note: due to its small size and wheels, it rolls best over flat, even terrain — like the airport, paved sidewalks, the zoo, etc.

Read our full Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Double Stroller Review, or the overall summary below:

Excerpt of Review:

“As double strollers go, this one is extremely lightweight at a mere 23 lbs — an incredibly low weight for a double stroller. The width is also something to write home about; at 26 inches wide, the City Tour 2 Double is wonderfully narrow and easily fits through standard doorways.

Another detail that makes the City Tour 2 Double nice for travel is that you can fold it with one hand (which does take some getting used to), and it auto locks once folded. The one-handed fold is super helpful when you’re managing multiple kiddos and all their belongings; it’s little things like this that you will really appreciate! Once it’s folded and locked, it won’t fly open as you lift it into your trunk, pack it in its carry bag, or throw it onto the security conveyor belt.” 

KEEP READING about the Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Double.

4. Valco Baby Slim Twin ~ $599 — Light & Narrow

Newer on the scene is Valco Baby’s Slim Twin stroller. At only 24 lbs and 26 inches wide (!!) this stroller is one of the very lightest and slimmest doubles on the market. Though it doesn’t have all the features and luxe details of Valco’s Snap Duo Trend, we think travel is where this stroller really shines. Light and compact enough to easily throw in the trunk, maneuver through an airport, or stroll the streets of your vacation destination, the Slim Twin might just be the perfect travel (and everyday) stroller for your duo.

Read our full Valco Baby Slim Twin Stroller Review — or the overall summary below:

Excerpt of Review:

“Are you looking for a super lightweight and narrow side-by-side double stroller that’s easy to maneuver, perfect for travel, fits through doorways and grocery store aisles with no problem, and easily fits in your trunk with room to spare? Then you must check out Valco Baby’s newest double stroller (which effectively replaces the Neo Twin): the Valco Baby Slim Twin (~ $599). At only 24 lbs and 26 inches wide, it lives up to its name; the Slim Twin is the narrowest of all of Valco’s double strollers, and one of the slimmest double strollers on the market (almost 5 inches smaller than most side-by-side strollers!).”

KEEP READING about the Valco Baby Slim Twin Stroller.

5. Valco Baby Snap Duo Trend ~ $749 — Lightest, Luxe Travel Stroller

Oh, snap! A great day-to-day stroller as well, parents LOVE the Valco Baby Snap Duo Trend. Not only is this stroller insanely light (24 lbs), but it’s compact, has a simple fold, offers great maneuverability, and has a ton of luxe features to boot.

If you’re headed to a warm weather destination, you’ll love the mesh paneling for added ventilation and airflow and the amazing sun canopy coverage that will block your littles from any harmful UV rays.

Read our full Valco Baby Snap Duo Trend Stroller Review – or the overall summary below:

Excerpt of Review:

“If you’re looking for a side-by-side double stroller that’s both lightweight and loaded with unexpected luxe features, check out the Valco Baby Snap Duo Trend.

People absolutely love this stroller — with it’s simple fold, great maneuverability, storage and lightweightedness, the Snap Duo makes for an awesome day-to-day and travel double stroller. Also… it’s pretty. (Note that this stroller comes in Charcoal, Denim, Grey Marle and Black.)

To clarify, this is not an “all-terrain” stroller (for that, look to the Tri-Mode), but it rides and maneuvers pretty well.

KEEP READING about the Valco Baby Snap Duo Trend Double Stroller

We hope this guide has helped you find the perfect double travel stroller to fit your family’s needs. Have fun on your adventures, friends. Bon voyage!

The post Top Double Travel Strollers appeared first on Lucie's List.

We dubbed the single Nano the “tiny workhorse” of strollers, so we were ecstatic to hear of a double version of this lightweight wonder. We’ve never seen one before… could it be done??

If you have twins or small children closer in age, this lightweight, compact side-by-side double stroller may be just what you need. While the Mountain Buggy Nano Duo certainly isn’t your all-terrain or heavy-duty double jogger, it is ideal for travel and everyday car errands.

As you may know, double strollers are typically HUGE monstrosities, not to mention extremely heavy (usually 25-40 lbs). The lightweightedness of this stroller makes it super easy to transport, a special plus for city dwellers who need to throw their double stroller in the back of taxis or Ubers, or carry them up sets of stairs. Bonus: it accepts two infant car seats, and is compatible with Mountain Buggy’s Cocoon for Twins.

Size & Weight

The Mountain Buggy Nano Duo weighs in at just 20 lbs (yes — you read that right: a double stroller that weighs only 20 lbs!) and can hold up to 33 lbs per seat. As stroller seats go, that’s not a ton of weight — depending on the weight of your children, it may only get you to their 3rd birthdays… but since it’s newborn compatible (more on that later), it’s a good “early days with twins” (or two close in age) stroller solution.  

Aesthetic-wise, while the frame and seat of the Nano Duo are all black, you can add a fun pop of color by choosing from 5 different canopy colors: Cyber (yellow), Silver, Ruby, Nautical Blue and Black. (OK – so black won’t give you the color pop… but the others?! Ohh la la! Pretty!). 

Something to note is that at ~ $549, the Nano Duo is definitely pricier than many of the other double umbrella strollers — i.e. the UPPAbaby G Link2 (~ $350) and the Zoe Twin+ (~ $449). The Zoe Twin+ is a (somewhat) comparable stroller, but it folds in half rather than in thirds, making the folded size of the Nano Duo more desirable. Thus, you are really paying a premium for the uber-compact fold.

Plus, you are getting slightly better features than on a double umbrella stroller, which are usually pretty bare bones when it comes to storage, push, etc. 

Car Seat Compatibility/Newborn Cocoon

One of our favorite features for twin parents: the Mountain Buggy Nano Duo can accept two infant car seats, when paired with the Nano Duo Twin Car Seat Adapter. The adapter is compatible with the following car seats: Mountain Buggy protect infant car seat, phil&teds alpha, Maxi-Cosi Mico, Peg Perego Primo Viaggio, Cybex Aton, Aton 2, Aton Q, Nuna Pipa, Graco Snugride 35, Snugride Click Connect 35 and Chicco Keyfit. 

Alternatively, the seats lay flat, and if you have twins, Mountain Buggy has recently come out with a cocoon for newborn twins (~ $109)! This is essentially like a soft-sided double bassinet (see below).

Plus, the Cocoon has a sunshade to protect your littles from the rays. Seriously, though — how cute is this thing?! Wishing my twins were infants again so I could put them in here… 

Note: if you have a newborn and a toddler, you can also purchase a single car seat adapter for the Nano Duo, as well as a single Newborn Cocoon. 

Seats

The seats on the Nano Duo are each 16” in height, recline independently, are equipped with a 5-point safety harness and have their own adjustable footrest. That is all to say: though small, they are full-featured seats.

As previously mentioned, they can only hold children up to 33 lbs — again, with that low weight limit, you need to know that this stroller isn’t going to last you through your kids’ entire childhoods. To be frank, this is more of a “little kid” stroller and will not be one you can use with bigger, older preschoolers, like some of the sturdier double umbrellas or all-terrain double strollers. Bummer for sure. 

In contrast, the Zoe Twin+ stroller, which is also a fab travel stroller and has a similar weight as the Nano Duo at 19 lbs, can hold kids up to 45 lbs per seat, and the UPPAbaby G Link2 can hold up to 55 lbs per seat. These are big differences for sure; due to their higher weight limits, all of these comparable strollers will last you longer than the Nano Duo. 

That said, none of these double strollers offer newborn solutions (i.e. they don’t accept car seats, nor do the seats lay completely flat), so with the Nano Duo, you can at least start using it right away. 

Canopy, Basket, Handlebar, Brake

The Nano Duo offers fair sun coverage, with two independently-operated three-panel canopies. I wish these canopies were a little bigger, but they are certainly not bad. They also don’t have peek-a-boo windows for checking on your kiddos, which is a shame (I LOOOOOVE peek-a-boo windows). In comparison, the Zoe Twin+ offers large, 4-panel canopies with UPF protection and peek-a-boo windows with magnetic closures.

The underseat storage basket is really ample, and can hold approximately 17 lbs of… stuff (and us moms of multiples can definitely fill a storage basket with that much stuff!). That said, some think the basket is hard to access due to the stroller frame’s bars that are in the way — see picture below. Again, this is a convenience stroller – you aren’t going to find the giant baskets you’ll find on larger strollers. 

Unfortunately, the handlebar on the Nano Duo isn’t adjustable. This isn’t a dealbreaker, just something to know… especially if you’re tall. It might not be great for super tall caregivers, as they may wind up kicking the rear axle while pushing this stroller. 

The Nano Duo has a single action color-coded brake on one set of the rear wheels that’s simple to engage (and summer-shoe friendly to boot). Step back on the red lever to engage the break, and forward on the blue lever to release it. Easy. 

Wheels/Maneuverability

Here’s the deal: like all (most?) travel strollers, the Nano Duo performs best on even, flat terrain. It’s really best for those who plan to use it on paved sidewalks, strolling through a mall, walking through the airport, etc; it most definitely does not perform well going over uneven terrain such as gravel, cobblestones, bumpy roads or grass. 

That said, those who use the Nano Duo on even surfaces say it maneuvers and rides quite well. The Nano Duo is equipped with 5” EVA wheels (these wheels are not air-filled, which is why they don’t handle well on bumpy terrain, but the upside is that they’ll never go flat), rear wheel suspension for a smoother ride for your littles, and the ability to swivel or lock the front wheel for better maneuverability and stability. 

Fold

The fold — along with its compact size once folded — is where this stroller really shines. The Nano Duo has a two-step, “Z-shaped” tri-fold (you’ll see what I mean in the video below… ), which sounds annoying at first, but hear me out: once you get the hang of it, it’s a cinch, and it becomes so small you can easily throw it in your trunk, or carry it over your shoulder with the attached shoulder strap. 

To fold the Nano Duo, first make sure the canopies are all the way back. Then press the two buttons on each side of the inner part of the stroller, which will fold the top part of the stroller and canopies backwards. Then push that part forward to fold the other way, and the stroller will collapse and lock into place.

It can self-stand once folded, or you can grab the shoulder strap and carry it like a bag. 

For a visual out of how to fold this stroller (seriously, it will make so much more sense once you SEE IT), go to 1:17 of this instructional Nano Duo video. 

Accessories

In addition to the car seat adapter and Newborn Cocoon (which you can purchase as either a single or double) mentioned previously, you can also buy a grab bar, weather cover, extra storage/parent organizer or a travel bag to go with your Nano Duo. 

Bottom Line

At 20 lbs, the Mountain Buggy Nano Duo is one of the lightest double strollers on the market. With its super compact fold and carry strap, the Nano Duo is a great choice for those who live in a city or somewhere with flat terrain, and for families who like to travel.

It’s awesome for infant twins, because unlike other double travel or umbrella strollers, it can accept two infant car seats, or babies up to 6 months can snuggle together in the Mountain Buggy Cocoon for Twins (for families with two kiddos close in age, the Nano Duo can also accept just one car seat, or a single Cocoon made for one infant).  

Before purchasing, however, keep in mind that the weight limit is only 33 lbs per seat — meaning the Nano Duo is only meant to last until your kids’ 3rd birthdays. Another downside is that while the underseat basket is large, it’s difficult to access due to the bars around it. In addition, the Nano Duo doesn’t have an adjustable handlebar, so if you’re a tall parent you may want to look elsewhere. 

But overall, if you have newborn twins, or two small kids (under three) close in age, and are looking for an everyday stroller that’s easy to throw in the car, store in your garage or home, run errands with or take on trips, the Mountain Buggy Nano Duo may just be the perfect fit for your family.

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Overview

Baby Jogger has been making the Summit X3 for years and years – and this particular model has been the same since 2016. Ironically, the Summit X3 is Baby Jogger’s only jogging stroller – HA! Baby Jogger was purchased by Graco around 2017, and it’s kinda good to see that Graco hasn’t “Graco-ized” this model, like they have the City Mini.

Size & Weight

The Summit X3 is 28.5 lbs, roughly one pound heavier than the BOB and 4 pounds heavier than the Thule! That said, it folds very compactly, so it would work well for families with small storage spaces and smaller trunks.

Seat

The seat, which can hold up to 75 pounds of baby meat (similar to the BOB), reclines nearly flat, with just one hand thanks to the simple cinch-strap in the back.

The seat is taller than most jogging strollers at almost 19″. In fact, many claim their 6-year-olds still fit comfortably in the seat (yes, many people use jogging strollers for much longer than regular strollers out of sheer necessity).

The padded 5-point harness is awesome and super smooth to use, and (unlike the BOB buckle) it cannot be easily undone by naughty toddlers, especially after the recent redesign. Many parents also use them for older, special needs children or children with mobility problems.

Car Seat

If you would like to use it with your car seat, you can buy adapters separately (but please, not for jogging until 6-8 months). The Summit X3 jogging stroller travel system accepts a plethora of car seats.

Canopy, Braking, Storage, and Accessories

The BabyJogger Summit X3 has a huge, delicious UV 50+ sun canopy with three full panels and two viewing windows, much like the Thule. We also love the side vents to keep things cool under the canopy when it is hot outside. These, combined with the back panel that you can roll up to get a breeze through, make this (and the Thule) better strollers for hotter climates due to the venting. The canopy is nice and smooth and not bunchy and crinkly like on the BOB. 

We like that the handlebar on the Summit X3 is rubberized and is very easy to wipe clean. That said, the handlebar is not adjustable. In this sense, it’s more like the Joovy Zoom 360. For tall (over 5’8”) – or very short – parents, we’d recommend the Thule Urban Glide 2 or the BOB Revolution Flex, both of which offer adjustable handlebars.

That said, this stroller does come equipped with a deceleration brake to slow the stroller down while running or in the hills, though the brake itself is tight. The Thule Urban Glide 2 and the much more expensive new BOB Alterrain Pro have this handbrake feature as well. 

The Summit X3 also has a runaway strap to prevent the stroller from rolling away if you let go unintentionally (it happens!). The runaway strap is affixed to the bottom of the stroller, which won’t bring the whole dang stroller crashing down if you happen to fall down while running (been there!).

The parking brake is easy to use and clicks when securely activated. 

The storage basket on the Summit is pretty roomy, especially for a jogger, and is easily accessible from the back and the sides, though it’s not covered like the Urban Glide’s. 

There is also a mesh pocket on the back of the seat, which is a nice place to store water bottles and other small items. 

It doesn’t come with a parent console, a snack tray, or other accessories, though you can buy all that stuff separately (Joovy for the win on that one, amiright?). 

Wheels/Suspension

The Summit X3 has fabulous 16” rear and 12” front air-filled tires and all-wheel suspension (below). It absorbs a lot of bumps for a super smooth ride. 

We love that you can change the fixed front wheel to swivel wheel mode with a simple side lever, unlike the BOB or Thule, where you have to kneel down at the wheel to do it manually. For people who are frequently switching between fixed wheel and swivel modes (perhaps if you like to jog and walk for intervals, for example), this is a wonderful feature. So much more civilized!

Like the BOB and Thule, the Summit X3 also has a trim feature on the front wheel (a red knob) that allows you to get the stroller tracking perfectly straight. This is key for a nice, uninterrupted jog.

Overall, the Summit X3 is easy to maneuver, but doesn’t perform as well as its competition in the jogging department or on uneven surfaces. Because it’s heavier than the competition, it’s just not as easy to push, maneuver and run with than others in its price range.

Folding & Carrying

The fold is the classic Baby Jogger fold that they are famous for. Simply pull up on the seat-handle, and the stroller collapses and is ready for you to carry away. That’s it! It’s super easy, even while carrying a baby in the other arm. The Thule Urban Glide is equally easy to fold. The BOB requires a little more work. 

The stroller folds compactly and should fit into most trunks, especially with the wheels popped off. 

Bottom Line

The Baby Jogger Summit X3 has many nice features for an all-terrain stroller, including the easy fold, the awesome canopy, the buckle, the easy wheel switch, the runaway strap, and the hand brake. We don’t recommend this stroller for very short or parents taller than 5’8″. BOB and Thule have a better push and are generally easier to run with — and both of them have an adjustable handlebar. Translation: you’ll have to weigh these factors to decide which is right for you, but I personally wouldn’t pay top dollar for this stroller over BOB or Thule, especially for serious runners. 

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Joovy Zoom 360 Ultralight Review: Overview

As you might expect, in the $$ department, you get a nicer stroller than you would in the $ department (such as the BabyTrend Expedition). The Joovy Zoom truly shines in its maneuverability, weight, and folded size (and the parent console!), but the tracking is subpar, which doesn’t make it quite as runner friendly as other jogging strollers on the market.

That said, it is half the price of some of the more luxurious running strollers out there, such as BOB and Thule Chariot, so we still think it’s a worthwhile investment, especially if you’re not primarily interested in the running aspect.

Size & Weight

The stroller weighs 26 lbs, which is heavier than the Thule (24.4 lbs) but lighter than the BOB Revolution Flex (27.3 lbs). The Joovy 360 folds very compactly for a running stroller, making it a great contender for city dwellers. 

Note: The Joovy Zoom meets Disneyland® / Disney® World stroller size requirements 

Seat

The Zoom 360 Ultralight has a wide seat and though it’s not terribly tall (about the same as BOB), it does hold up to 75 lbs, which is one of the highest weight limits in the field. Special needs parents use it for their bigger/older kids with the caveat that the child’s head may brush the canopy. The seat also has side mesh pockets, which are great for sippy cups and small toys. 

Like most jogging stroller, the seat does not sit totally upright, though it does recline pretty far — about 30 degrees from horizontal. The reclining system requires two hands. 

The lower part of the seat has a nice metal footrest for wet or dirty feet — easy to spray off with a hose. We also love that the harness is super easy to adjust. 

Side note: The Joovy Zoom uses zero flame retardant chemicals in this stroller.

Car Seat Compatibility 

With the purchase of a car seat adapter, you can attach many car seat brands (including the Graco Snugride and the Chicco Keyfit) to this stroller. These seats click securely in and out of the adapter, which is a notable upgrade from the BOB, even, which requires that you strap the car seat in place. 

Canopy, Brake, Storage, and Accessories

This stroller has a HUUUGE canopy that goes well past the knee and has a large peekaboo window. Note that the Velcro closures on the canopy are on the louder side, so keep that in mind. 

The Joovy 360’s handlebar is not very ergonomic and is not adjustable, which means it may be more uncomfortable to use if you are on the taller or shorter side. This may be a deal-breaker for some.

The stroller comes with an attachable runaway strap to keep it from getting away from you on hills, and we love that it comes with a neoprene parent console (below), complete with two deep cup holders, a zippered storage pouch, and reflective tape for dusk or night use. 

The brake, however, can be a bit challenging to use and is not flip flop friendly. 

Lastly, the storage basket may seem big at first sight, but it can only allow for up to 5 lbs, so keep that in mind when you pack for your outings.  

(The rain cover is sold separately.)

Wheels/Suspension

As with all joggers, you get huge 16″ air-inflated tires that ride like a dream, and you can switch the front wheel to locked mode at the front tire for jogging. That being said, reviewers (including myself) have encountered difficulties tracking the stroller straight, which can make it challenging, especially if you’re an avid runner. 

Like most all-terrain strollers with air-filled tires, the Joovy 360 is very responsive and a dream to push and turn, especially on flat, hard surfaces. The suspension system is excellent, thanks to shocks over the back wheels.

The stroller also includes a mini-tire pump for your monthly pump-up, although I personally couldn’t figure out how to get the pump to work properly.

Folding & Carrying

You can fold the Zoom 360 Ultralight at the seat and it auto locks into place. YES! We love a stroller that locks itself!

For a jogger, the fold is very compact(yay!), and you can pop off the wheels for even more space. It fits well in tight trunks, like that of a Toyota Corolla or RAV4.

Bottom Line — Joovy Zoom 360 Ultralight Review: If you’re looking for something better than a Baby Trend Expedition jogging stroller but don’t have the money for a BOB (and the like), look no further than the Joovy Zoom 360 Ultralight. It’s the happy medium of jogging strollers. Though we don’t recommend it for very tall or very short people due to lack of handlebar adjustability, it’s one of the easiest strollers to maneuver, and you can’t beat its folded size. Plus, Joovy’s customer service is top-notch.

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Overview

The latest version of the Baby Trend Expedition Jogger, the RG, came out in late 2017. It has a new all-black look, is very well-liked, and the price is right.

I’ve been running with this stroller in my mom’s running club, and, for an economy jogger, I’m very impressed… though it may not be the best choice for the serious runners among us.

Weight

At only 23.6 lbs, the Expedition is one of the lighter jogging strollers out there (lighter than the Thule, which weighs just over 24 lbs, and the Joovy Zoom 360, which weighs in at 26 lbs).

Combine that with its relatively small size, compact fold and self-stand feature, and you’ve got yourself a great contender for people who live in small spaces and with limited storage.  

Folding & Carrying

The trigger fold is two-handed, but it is quick and fairly easy. You just have to slide the side levers up and pull on the handle that’s under the seat. The fold is compact compared to other strollers in the jogging stroller category — and we love that it self-stands, like the Joovy 360 Ultralight.

It’s also simple to pop off the rear wheels to make the whole kit and caboodle more compact for travel. 

Seat

The seat has a five-point harness that’s easy to adjust (though it isn’t padded) and can recline in multiple positions. The recline is one handed, easy to use and deep enough for cozy naps. The back of the seat has decent ventilation that you can cover when needed (in the winter months, for example).

This stroller also comes with a swing-away child tray (it’s nice not to have to remove the tray entirely to get your kid in and out of the seat) with two cup holders. The tray doubles as base for a Baby Trend infant car seat, so you can use this stroller with an infant in a car seat (just not for jogging until around 8 months, please).

The weight capacity is 50 lbs, which is a lot less than other jogging strollers out there. For example, the Joovy, Thule and BOB joggers all allow for up to 75 lbs of baby meat.

Car Seat Compatibility

The Expedition is only compatible with the Baby Trend car seat. So if you already have a car seat from another brand, this stroller may not be for you. Instead, you may want to take a look at the Joovy Zoom 360 Ultralight.

You can buy the stroller as a travel system too, for $199 (at Target)!

Wheels/Suspension

The Expedition has metal wheels with air-filled rubber tires that offer a smooth push, but it doesn’t have any suspension, which means it doesn’t make for a very comfortable ride for tiny passengers.

The metal spokes are notorious for rusting over time, especially if you live near the ocean. This is one of those features that screams “economy” in this stroller; it simply won’t last as long as a higher quality stroller.

Overall, it is easy to maneuver and turn, and its light weight makes it easy to push. But the lack of suspension makes it a better contender for short jogs rather than long distance runs.

Canopy,  Brakes, and Handlebar

The ratcheting shade canopy on the Expedition offers a good deal of sun coverage, though not as good as on higher-end joggers (and not as good as the Joovy). It has a peek-a-boo window and a mesh pop out visor, and you can rotate it forward to protect your little one from the low sun or headwinds, which is a nice touch.

The brakes, which are not sandal friendly, are stiff and double action. This means that you need to press two pedals for the brakes to be engaged.

The handlebar, which is not height-adjustable, has a parent tray, which is a real crown pleaser. It has two cup holders and a small, closed compartment for your phone and keys.

The Expedition comes with a safety-conscious tether strap (you know… for if you fall and bust your ass — it happens). 

Storage

The under-seat storage basket is large, with a maximum weight of 5 lbs (which is not as impressive as other jogging strollers) and accessible from all sides. The storage on this stroller is similar to the Joovy Zoom 360.

Bottom Line

All in all, the Expedition is a great economy jogger for the price. People are generally happy with the weight, the fold and the overall performance. Just remember, you get what you pay for. Unlike pricier strollers, it generally won’t hold up as well over time, lacks an adjustable handlebar and doesn’t have any suspension or a tracking device to keep it straight while running. That said, this is a great economy option for those who take shorter runs and who live in smaller spaces where storage is tight.

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Looking for a highly-rated economy stroller that will take your babe from birth to toddlerhood? Check out this Graco Modes stroller review.

Overview

Graco offers a tremendous value and seating versatility with the Modes stroller. Strollers with reversible (and removable!) seats are all the rage these days and frankly, they’re very hard to find at this price point. Features like the parent tray, large storage basket and ample canopy make it even more of a crowd-pleaser.

Just keep in mind that Graco is an economy brand, so the build quality is not quite on the same level as other strollers out there, especially in the field of reversible strollers. In fact, some reviewers have pointed out that the stroller feels cheap. That’s because, well, it is pretty darn inexpensive. So just remember: it’s a Kia, not a Cadillac. That said, it’s important to note that the reviews are overwhelmingly positive, so you know you’re still getting a reliable product.

When asking ourselves, “which stroller is this most similar to?”, we had a hard time coming up with an answer.

Honestly, to have a full-featured reversible stroller for well under $200 is quite remarkable (which is how it made this top 10 list to begin with!). The one competitor that comes to mind is the Summer Infant Myria DLX stroller, which costs $179 alone or $263 as a travel system (which we have not yet reviewed.) The Evenflo Urbini Omni + also falls in the category of “budget reversible strollers,” as well as the Evenflo Pivot. Lastly, the GB Lyfe is a Euro stroller that’s a little more fashion forward at this price point.

Weight

At 23 lbs, the Graco Modes is definitely heavy for a non all-terrain stroller, though surprisingly lighter than, say, the UPPAbaby Cruz V2, which now weighs 25.5 lbs. Compare that weight with another favorite stroller, the Baby Jogger City Mini 2 (19.6 lbs), and to the Myria (19.2 lbs). Though all reversible strollers are on the heavier side of the spectrum, weight is a big consideration if you know you’ll be hauling your stroller around. 

If you want to stick to this price point but want something lighter, the 3-wheeled Graco Modes 3 Lite made our “Best in Show” 2015 list; and at 19 lbs, the weight is much more palatable. Seriously, 19 pounds for a fast-folding, modular stroller is really phenomenal.

The Graco Modes stroller meets Disney size requirements.

Seat

Again, the Graco Modes is a “modular” stroller, which means the seat is reversible. The seat, which can hold up to 50 lbs, comes off to face forward or backward and offers up to 10 different riding configurations. This is usually something you only see in full-size luxury strollers — so it’s a major score to get this feature at this price point. See also: Best Reversible Strollers

The seat also fully reclines, which is great for on-the-go naps, and can even morph into an infant bassinet so you can use the stroller from birth (though the seat doesn’t lie completely flat). 

The seat comes with a 3-position calf support, though one reviewer says they are having a hard time adjusting the footrest and clicking it into place. 

Car Seat Compatibility

Another way to use the Modes from birth: remove the seat altogether and use it as a travel system with a car seat. The easiest option is to use one of Graco’s SnugRide Click Connect infant car seats (yes we recommend it!). With the Click Connect technology, it just takes one step to secure the car seat on the stroller — easy peasy.

Travel System Options (sold with car seat)

• Modes travel system w/ SnugRide SnugLock 35 ~ MSRP $299

• Modes 3 Lite DLX Travel System w/ SnugRide SnugLock 30 ~ MSRP $251

Fold

We’re suckers for one-step, one-hand folds, and the Graco Modes offers just that — yay!! Plus, it has an automatic storage latch and stands upright when folded (major win to stash away in your closet). Note that some reviewers on Amazon claim that they occasionally have a hard time folding the stroller, even after only a few uses. 

*You cannot fold the stroller if the seat is facing in, so you will need to either take the seat off or turn it around to face forward. While inconvenient, this is not uncommon for reversible strollers; most only fold with the seat facing forward. 

Some customers complain that the Modes doesn’t fold flat and remains bulky when closed. Needless to say, a compact stroller it is not. 

Wheels

This stroller is pretty easy to push, though many people complain about an ongoing squeak. The brand’s website does recognize that issue and recommends using light oil to remedy the problem. 

Reviewers say same much the same thing about the wheels as they do the Modes stroller in general: they are made of plastic (not rubber) and therefore feel like they’re on the cheaper side (again, for less than $200… what do you expect). 

Other Features

One of Graco Modes’ most praised features is its basket, which is very spacious.

Parents also appreciate the tray right under the handle with two cup holders — plenty of space for your water, coffee, etc. (see below).

Like having to pay extra for Wifi at the Ritz Carlton — vs. getting it for free at the Holiday Inn — the economy strollers tend to come “standard” with some really great accessories, like these parent trays.

Note that the shoulder straps don’t actually attach to the waist straps. They slide in together, but… also easily slide out. Some parents have said they have to realign them every single day, which we imagine can get annoying. 

Graco Modes vs. Summer Infant Myria

The Graco Modes and Summer Infant Myria are very comparable in price and features. Retailing for under $200, they are both very reliable yet affordable modular (reversible) strollers with a one-hand standing fold, a large storage basket, and travel-system capabilities (both only with their respective brand’s infant car seats). With the Modes, you get the compatibility with the ever-popular SnugRide, so that’s a big plus.

Though both strollers come with a child tray, only the Modes offers the parent tray (the Myria has the more traditional cup holder that attaches on the side of the frame). 

Though the Myria is lighter than the Modes (a huge plus, in our opinion), it offers fewer riding configurations (6 vs. 10). It also has an extendable canopy with a peek-a-boo window, which the Modes lacks. 

Overall, you can’t go wrong with either stroller. Reviewers report that both are easy to maneuver and, though you don’t get the best quality, both the Modes and the Myria check all the boxes.

Bottom Line

The Graco Modes offers a reversible seat, something you typically only see in luxury offerings, for an economy price. The basics are all there, but again, it’s not the highest build quality. We love the spacious storage, the one-hand standing fold, and the 10 riding options. Essentially, Graco delivers good value for the money.

If you’re using it with an infant, we recommend going for Graco’s Click Connect travel system; and if you’re after a lighter option, the Modes 3 Lite is the way to go. Either way, you’re sure to get a solid stroller without breaking the bank (just keep a bottle of oil handy for those squeaky wheels). Cheers!

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Weight: 25.5 lbs

Oops they did it again… UPPAbaby took an already-bestselling stroller and made it even better. That’s right, the UPPAbaby Cruz stroller got an updo for 2020, and we’re totally gaga over all the useful features and impressive upgrades. If you’re looking for a daily do-it-all single stroller that’s meant to last, look no further. At last: our UPPAbaby Cruz stroller review. 

Overview

For the UPPAbaby Cruz version V2, the stroller goes bigger in features and smaller in its fold. We’re talking bigger wheels and basket, more upscale details and fabrics, and more.

Overall, the Cruz V2 remains the peppier, more affordable full size offering from UPPAbaby (vs. its big sister, the Vista), though more rugged (and bigger/heavier) than its older version.

Bottom line: “Compact without compromise” still holds true for this newer version, though the extra lbs are an unwelcome addition. 

Weight

If you’re after a lightweight stroller, the Cruz stroller may not make the top of your list. Weighing 25.5 lbs, it’s barely lighter than the single-to-a-double UPPAbaby Vista V2 (27 lbs) and 4 pounds heavier than the previous Cruz stroller (21.5 lbs). That’s because of the bigger wheels and roomier seat. 

The increase in weight is a major bummer, as the Cruz was a good contender for a lightweight, full size stroller. Interestingly enough, it’s still lighter than its biggest competitor, the Nuna Mixx (25.5 lbs vs. 26.8 lbs).

Seat

Like the UPPAbaby Vista, the Cruz stroller is “modular”, which means the seat can face forward or backward, though it does not come with a bassinet like the Vista stroller (however, you can buy the UPPAbaby bassinet separately). Also, it is a single stroller — it cannot convert into a double later on, so you can really only use it for one child (or two, with the PiggyBack Board) — something to consider since now the Cruz’s and Vista’s weights are not that different anymore. See also: Best reversible strollers.

Good news for parents of tall and/or big kids: the toddler seat is now longer and offers more space. Compared with the 2019 Cruz, the new and updated seat back and leg rest on the Cruz V2 are both 2″ longer, and the footrest is a half-inch deeper — both of which mean more comfort for children who are on the larger side. 

The seat features a one-hand recline that lets you change your little one’s position in a jiffy. 

Another plus: the Cruz’ new version offers a no-rethread harness for faster, easier adjustments. This is a major upgrade from the 2019 stroller, which required you to remove the harness from its slots in order to make height changes. 

Fold

We already loved the easy “one-step” fold of the original Cruz stroller, but the updated version is even better. Why? Two words: more compact!

Compared to its 2019 counterpart, the Cruz V2 is nearly 4 inches shorter when folded. You know what that means, right? It’s easier to carry around when traveling AND to stash away in your closet or in the trunk. The heavier weight might make it harder to lift, but at least it takes up less space…

We also love the fact that it stands on its own when folded. 

Wheels

The tires on the Cruz stroller mimic the cushioned ride of an air-filled tire that you may find in a jogging stroller, but with the lightweight benefit of foam. *This is not an all-terrain stroller, per se, but it’s still a darn good ride!

In fact, the Cruz V2 may even take it up a notch in the smooth ride department. With its bigger, softer wheels and all-wheel suspension (the 2019 Cruz only had suspension in the front), the stroller softens winding and bumpy paths, making it ultra comfortable for your little ones, especially as they grow bigger and heavier. 

These larger wheels are now very similar to those on the Vista (below) and makes the V2 more like a “compact all-terrain” stroller, somewhat like the Baby Jogger City Mini GT, but in a luxury package.

The patented “two-stage system” means that when you put pressure onto the frame, the springs on the wheels will work independently to make the stroller bounce back and absorb shock before it gets to the seat and to your babe. Hello on-the-go naps…

Car Seat Compatibility

UPPAbaby sells car seat adapters that are compatible with Maxi-Cosi, Nuna, Cybex and Chicco. That said, if you are getting the Cruz or the Vista, do yourself a favor and get the UPPAbaby Mesa car seat — it fits together beautifully with no adapter needed. 

Canopy

The Cruz stroller already had an amazing sunshade, but its newer version is even better. The new adjustable canopy has an extension that goes lower and farther and even reveals a peek-a-boo window to keep an eye on your babe. It also has a mesh panel towards the front to allow for more airflow. 

Finally, we love that the extension is made with the same fabric as the canopy (the original Cruz had a silver one instead) — so much more sophisticated. 

Speaking of… let’s talk colorways. The Cruz V2 offers some seriously gorgeous options. From a dusty rose to a while marl to a green melange, there’s a color for literally every taste. 

Handlebar

The premium leather handle on the V2 is delicious and adds such a nice, sophisticated touch. 

The telescoping handlebar extends and retracts easily. That’s a major plus if you and your significant other are not close in height.

Basket

UPPAbaby is known for its generous underbaskets. Seriously, you can store a week’s worth of groceries for a family of 4 in the Vista’s basket. Well, good news: the Cruz V2’s storage basket is now more comparable to that of the UPPAbaby Vista stroller, holding up to 30 lbs. 

The large opening means you have easy access to all your belongings. 

Price

All the new and upgraded features of the Cruz V2 come at a price… literally. The 2019 Cruz retailed for $549-579  the V2 costs between $649 and $679 depending on the colorway you choose. That’s a significant increase and something you’ll definitely have to take into consideration as you make your choice. Which leads us to…

UPPAbaby Cruz V2 vs. Nuna Mixx

Now more than ever, the UPPAbaby Cruz stroller V2 is very similar to the Nuna MIXX — in price, size and features. Both strollers, which retail around the same price ($649), check all the boxes. They are both modular (reversible) strollers that offer a smooth ride, are easy to fold, have a no-rethread harness for easy height adjustments, and a high-end look with luxurious soft goods.

Comparing the two, the MIXX is slightly heavier than the Cruz V2 (26.8 lbs vs. 25.5 lbs), and is slightly bulkier when folded. However, the Mixx features a lie-flat seat that can be used from birth. If you want to use the Cruz V2 with your newborn, you will need to purchase the Infant SnugSeat ($49) for head and neck support. 

The biggest drawback of the Nuna MIXX: while the Cruz V2 is compatible with various top-rated car seat brands (not just their Mesa car seat), the MIXX can only be used with Nuna’s infant car seat (the Pipa). 

Another consideration: because of the handlebars, the CRUZ V2 is better for taller parents, while MIXX wins as a stroller for shorter caregivers, or those who differ in height a lot.

Full Nuna MIXX review coming soon, stay tuned!

Bottom Line

Thanks to its sturdier wheels, the UPPAbaby Cruz V2 acts more like an all-terrain stroller than its previous iteration, while its other recent upgrades — like the larger wheels, larger basket and higher weight — make it more similar to the UPPAbaby Vista, with still a more compact build and a cheaper price point. All-in-all, this UPPAbaby stroller is a rock-solid choice for use with one child (or two, with a stroller board) that will serve you well for years to come.

We think it’s best for those who don’t have to haul it in and out of the trunk and for those looking for a superior ride but with an elevated, luxury look.

The post UPPAbaby Cruz Stroller Review appeared first on Lucie's List.

If you’ve been eyeing this stroller on looks alone (who hasn’t?), good news: this baby has beauty and brains. It’s an incredibly well-designed piece of equipment, both aesthetically and functionally.

Quick overview: the Demi Grow is the only luxury stroller with a stacked seat design, similar to Phil & Teds and the Britax B-Ready. The stacked seat design shortens the length of the stroller, making it easier to maneuver than its closest competitors, including the Thule Sleek and the UPPABaby Vista; the “cost” is the loss of the storage basket when used in doubles mode. More on that later.

Overall, we love this stroller and think it may be the best in its class of luxury convertible strollers (with caveats).

The Look

We eat with our eyes, right? If so, I’d order this stroller off the menu.

Based on looks alone, the Nuna Demi Grow is a knockout. It’s nothing like the chunky, clunky monstrosities of yesteryear. The Demi Grow is slender, sleek and, dare we say, stylish.

It comes in two standard colorways: caviar (black) and frost (grey). Nordstrom also carries an exclusive model called “Threaded” (~ $849), which we also .

The Cost

At $899, the single stroller comes with one toddler seat and two sets of car seat adapters that work with all car seats in the Nuna Pipa infant car seat series, as well as the Maxi Cosi car seat — the former of which is a luxury infant seat. The second stroller seat on the Demi Grow rings up at $249. You can also purchase the whole thing as a double here.

If you’re looking at the Demi Grow, chances are you’re also considering the not too distant UPPAbaby Vista convertible stroller (~ $929). In terms of pricing and compatibility, the Vista gets slightly higher marks because it comes with a luxury pram, whereas you have to buy Nuna’s infant bassinet for an additional $249.

Looking at price alone, if you already know you want a bassinet, the Vista is a better deal…. but they are very different strollers.

Stroller Assembly and Configurations

This stroller is so simple to put together, I didn’t even need the instructions; that simplicity is something I can appreciate. Open the stroller, pop on the wheels, click on the seat and you’re good to go.

The Demi Grow can be used as a single, twin or double stroller. There are 23 possible configurations. Twenty-three.

That sounds elaborate and confusing, but it’s actually good news. It means you could get years and years out of this stroller. It also means your kid can be forward or rear facing, on top or bottom, in a car seat, pram or stroller seat. There are endless possibilities that you’ll have years to explore.

The only downside is that the bottom seat cannot be reversed to rear-face.

Stroller Seats

The Demi Grow has the Cadillac of stroller seats. They’re cushioned with a padded seat liner that’s great for the colder months and can be removed to expose a more breathable mesh seat for the sweltering months of summer. The seats are also equipped with a padded headrest and padded shoulder straps. So comfy.

New on the 2021 model is a technology called MagneTech Secure Snap, which is essentially a self-guiding magnetic buckle that automatically locks into place. I can see how this would make snapping kids into their seats easier; that said, I can also see how it might also make it easier for kids to unbuckle themselves out of their seats…

You can also recline the seats to a fully flat position with one hand, which is very nice.

These seats have high weight limits; each seat can carry up to 50 lbs of baby meat. On the Uppababy Vista, by comparison, the upper toddler seat can hold up to 50 lbs while the secondary “rumble seat” can only hold up to 35 lbs.  

A rain cover is also included with each seat, which is a nice touch.

The Canopy

The canopy is large and comes with an extendable sun shade. It can be unzipped to reveal a mesh fabric that covers nearly every inch of your baby. Nuna calls it the “dream drape”, and it’s the same thing that comes on the Pipa and Pipa Lite infant car seats.

It’s perfect for hot, sunny days and also to keep distractions to a minimum when napping on-the-go. It also has a magnetic mesh peek-a-boo window so you can keep an eye on your little one, and help with airflow.

One annoyance to note is that the clamp mechanism that holds the canopy onto the sides of the stroller constantly comes unclamped, but I haven’t heard anyone else with this problem.

Wheels

The stroller has foam-filled, all-terrain wheels, which were a big help on hikes (yes, we took this stroller hiking with us). The stroller has all-wheel suspension, which means bumpy surfaces are smooth sailing for your littles.

Huge bonus: this stroller rides well over all kinds of terrain. It has a switch near each back tire that you can set depending on the type of the terrain you’re strolling over — i.e. bumpy, uneven ground, smooth roads or sidewalks, etc. This is super innovative and extremely helpful!

The rear tires have fenders and a plexiglass backing on their rims — a safety feature that many other strollers don’t have. It keeps your precious baby’s teeny-tiny fingers safe from pinches while riding in the bottom seat. A thoughtful feature, IMO.

Maneuverability

As mentioned earlier, the Demi Grow is a dream to push. Even in doubles mode with both seats attached, this stroller is easy to maneuver on all types of terrain (paved roads, hiking trails, etc.). With the center of gravity so far to the rear, it really pushes like a single.

Unlike other double strollers where the additional seat is attached on the front of the stroller (Thule Sleek, City Select and UPPABaby Vista), the sibling seat on the Demi Grow is (nearly) stacked under the primary seat, like the Britax B-Ready (see comparison below), which is the absolute best thing about this stroller — and its biggest downfall IMO — but more on that later.

Not only does it make it easier to maneuver and turn, but it also means you can actually see where you’re going. For moms who are particularly short, some of these tandem convertibles are so long, they are difficult to see over.

The Handlebar

The attractive cognac brown leatherette handlebar telescopes up and down so parents of any height feel comfortable.

Brake

I’ve read complaints that the Demi Grow is not “flip-flop friendly”, but I’ve used this stroller many times wearing slides and had no problem disengaging the brake. You simply step on the brake to engage and step on it again to disengage it. Boom.

The Fold

The stroller folds quickly and easily, which is pretty rare for a double. Pressing a button on each side collapses the stroller, and it automatically locks into place to prevent rolling or falling open while you’re loading it into your car.

Though you don’t have to remove the second seat to fold the stroller, I (along with many reviewers) think it’s much easier to fold and hoist into your car if you do remove the seat. We have a Subaru Forester and a Lexus GX, and have found this to be true for both cars. 

This isn’t unusual for tandem strollers, but it’s still worth mentioning. Also worth mentioning is the ease in which the seats are removed. They glide right off, which means you won’t be caught struggling in the parking lot.

The brand claims that, once folded, the stroller can stand by itself… but I’ve had a hard time making it work. I’ve resorted to leaning it against the wall, which is not ideal. 

Storage/Basket

The reason the “stacked” seats are a downfall is that, by placing the second seat under the first, you lose access to your basket.

Bye bye storage.

When the second seat is attached, there’s essentially nowhere to put your diaper bag; you can’t even clip it onto the handlebar because then it hangs right over the second child’s head. This is basically the same problem with all “stacked” convertibles, such as Phil & Teds and the Britax B-Ready. There is a workaround to this: investing in a stroller handlebar organizer like this one. It’s not quite the same, but… it’s a good option.

Something else to note: the Demi Grow’s storage basket has a 10 lb weight limit, whereas the Vista can hold up to 30 lbs in its basket.

Bottom line: if an easily accessible storage basket while in doubles mode is a must for you, the Vista is a better bet.

Weight

No question about it, this stroller is heavy. When used as a single, it’s 27.4 pounds, but remember this heavy weight is normal for convertible strollers. You really can’t compare the weight of the Demi Grow to other “true” single strollers, because it’s apples to oranges. For reference, some single strollers are as light as 13 pounds (like the GB Pockit+).

In doubles mode, the Nuna Demi Grow weighs 35.6 lbs, which is on par with other doubles/convertibles of its size. For comparison’s sake, the UPPAbaby Vista is 32.8 lbs, the Thule Sleek is 35, and a double Bob is 33 lbs. Yes, it’s definitely on the heavier side of that range.

Warranty

The Nuna Demi Grow comes with a two year warranty. It’s nice to have that added peace of mind.

Nuna Demi Grow Stroller Review: Bottom Line

There are several strollers out there with this stacked “in-line” design, but this is the only one in the “luxury” realm. The fit and finish of this stroller, like with most Nuna products, is top notch.

The stacked design gives you the steerage and maneuverability of a single stroller, at the cost of under-basket storage (when in doubles mode). Also, the lower (2nd) child can’t rear-face and may feel a bit more crammed in, though we’ve noticed that younger/smaller children (under 3) don’t have this issue.

All in all, we believe the good qualities outweigh the bad, especially for moms or caregivers on the shorter side, for those whose kids are further apart in age, and for those who maneuverability is of utmost importance (for example, people who lives in the hills and/or need to pop the stroller up onto curbs with some frequency).

We hope this review helped you make a decision. Cheers!

The post Nuna Demi Grow Stroller Review appeared first on Lucie's List.