Planning for two
Single-to-double strollers, explained
Short answer: A single-to-double stroller starts as a normal single and takes a second seat later, usually stacked in line so it stays as narrow as a single. It suits families planning a second child within a few years. The extra seat is sold separately, and the lower seat has less room. For twins, a side-by-side double is often better.
How does a single-to-double stroller work?
It's a single stroller with mounting points for a second seat. When a sibling arrives, you add the second seat, usually below or behind the first. Because the seats sit one in front of or above the other (an "in-line" layout), the stroller stays about as narrow as a single and fits through ordinary doorways and store aisles.
The second seat, and often the adapters to mount it, are sold separately. Many convertibles can also take an infant car seat or bassinet in one of the two positions, so a toddler and a newborn can ride together.
Which strollers we cover can carry two children?
Three ways to carry two are covered on this site: in-line convertibles, a side-by-side double, and two travel strollers clipped together. Here's how each one does it, according to its maker.
| Stroller | Layout | Weight | Folded (L×W×H) | How it carries two | List price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Evenflo Pivot Xpand | In-line, add-on seat | 30.2 lb | 33.8×26.5×23.8 in | Single-to-double with a second toddler seat or infant car seat (sold separately), no tools; Stroller Rider Board for a third child (sold separately) | $439.99 |
| Stokke YOYO3 | Two strollers clipped together | 13.7 lb | 20.5×17.3×7.1 in | YOYO connect clips a second YOYO behind the first for twins or close-in-age siblings; ride-on board option | $499 |
| Mockingbird Single-to-Double 3.0 | In-line, add-on seat | 28 lb | 34×26×18 in | Single-to-double with the 2nd Seat Kit ($175, sold separately); a Riding Board attachment adds a third rider; 44 seating configurations | $549 |
| Zoe Twin V3 | Side by side | 25 lb | 27×30×11 in | Side-by-side double that grows to a triple or quad with Zoe add-on seats (Trio $249, Tribe $299, sold separately) | $599 |
| Baby Jogger City Select 2 | In-line, add-on seat | 26.7 lb | 33×24.3×12 in | Single-to-double with the second seat kit ($279.99, sold separately); a glider board (sold separately) adds a third rider; 24 configurations | $659.99 |
| UPPAbaby Minu Duo | Side by side | 27.4 lb | 12.9×27.8×23.7 in | Side-by-side double only | $749.99 |
| Cybex Gazelle S | In-line, add-on seat | 28.4 lb | 32.9×25.4×12.2 in | Single-to-double with a second Gazelle S Seat Unit, cot or car seat in place of the shopper basket; up to 3 children with the Kid Board (all sold separately) | $899.95 |
| UPPAbaby Vista V3 | In-line, add-on seat | 27.6 lb | 16.3×25.7×33.8 in | Single-to-double with a second seat (RumbleSeat, sold separately); up to three kids with a riding board | $999.99 |
| UPPAbaby Vista V2 | In-line, add-on seat | 27 lb | 17.3×25.7×33.3 in | Single-to-double with the RumbleSeat V2+ (sold separately); up to three kids with the PiggyBack board | $999.99 |
| Nuna DEMI next | In-line, add-on seat | 26 lb | 23.5×24×35 in | Single-to-double with the DEMI next sibling seat (sold separately) in the top or lower position; rider board included; Nuna cites 25+ modes | $1,000 |
| Bugaboo Donkey 6 | In-line, add-on seat | 33.7 lb | 22×24.2×35.4 in | Single-to-double side by side with the Donkey 6 sibling seat (sold separately); Bugaboo cites over 20 configurations for up to 3 children with car seats and a wheeled board | $1,699 |
What does it cost to add the second seat?
Budget for the extra seat from the start, because it can add a lot. The Mockingbird Single-to-Double 3.0 costs $549, and its 2nd Seat Kit is $175 more. The UPPAbaby Vista V3 costs $999.99, and its RumbleSeat is sold separately. The Evenflo Pivot Xpand is the lowest-priced convertible we cover at $439.99, with its second toddler seat sold separately.
Riding boards are another low-cost option for an older sibling who walks most of the way but needs a rest. The Vista V3, Mockingbird and Pivot Xpand all offer one.
What are the trade-offs with two on board?
- The lower seat is tighter. The child below has less legroom, a lower view and often a shallower recline.
- The basket is harder to reach. With a second seat mounted low, the basket opening shrinks.
- It gets heavier and longer. The frame alone is already in full-size territory: 27.6 lb for the Vista V3, 28 lb for the Mockingbird and 30.2 lb for the Pivot Xpand. Add a second seat and two children and it takes more effort to push and steer, especially on hills.
- Folding may take an extra step. Some convertibles need the second seat removed before folding.
Single-to-double or side-by-side double?
A side-by-side double gives both children the same view, legroom and recline, and neither seat blocks the basket. The Zoe Twin V3 weighs 25 lb, each seat is rated to 60 lb, and Zoe designed it to fit through a standard doorway. The cost is width: it is always a double, even when only one child rides.
- Twins or children under about 18 months apart: a side-by-side double usually works better, because both will ride most of the time.
- A second child expected in two or three years: a single-to-double makes sense. You use it as a single first, and add the seat when you need it.
- An older child who rarely rides: a single stroller with a riding board may be all you need.
What about clipping two strollers together?
Stokke's YOYO connect lets you clip a second Stokke YOYO3 behind the first, for twins or siblings close in age. Each stroller still folds small on its own, which suits city families and travel. You buy two complete strollers, though, so compare the total with a dedicated double.
Strollers to consider if you're planning for two
Single-to-double stroller FAQ
Is a single-to-double stroller worth it?
It's worth it if you expect a second child within a few years and want one stroller for both. You avoid buying a double later. If you're not planning a second child soon, a regular single is lighter, simpler and usually cheaper, and you can buy a double if you need one.
Can a newborn and a toddler ride together?
Yes, in most convertibles. One position takes an infant car seat or bassinet and the other takes the toddler seat. Check your stroller maker's list of approved configurations, because not every combination is allowed, and some need specific adapters sold separately.
Do single-to-double strollers fit through doors?
Usually, yes. Because the seats sit in line, the stroller stays about as wide as a single. Side-by-side doubles are wider, though some, like the Zoe Twin V3, are designed to fit through a standard doorway. Check the open width your maker lists against your narrowest door.
Are side-by-side doubles better for twins?
Often, yes. Both children get the same view, legroom and recline, and the basket stays easy to reach. In-line convertibles also work for twins, but the lower seat is tighter. Side-by-side doubles are wider, so measure your doorways, elevator and car trunk before you buy.
More buying guides
- BudgetHow much does a stroller cost?
- Start hereHow to choose a stroller
- Choosing a typeFull-size vs compact strollers
- Car seat + strollerWhat is a travel system?
- SafetyStroller safety checklist
- Baby's first monthsWhen can a baby sit in a stroller seat?
- Trunk fitHow to measure your trunk for a stroller