The ‘double stroller vs stroller wagon’ debate has been on my mind for a while now. As a parent, these decisions feel monumental, like plotting the course for countless family adventures.
Gone are the days when my biggest worry was choosing between a latte and a cappuccino. Now, I’m here, trying to figure out the best way to cart around my most precious cargo.
Do I go with the tried-and-true double stroller, known for its cozy seats and smooth handling, or venture into the world of stroller wagons, with their spacious allure and rugged charm?
In this article, we’ll dive deep into the pros and cons of each, share real parents’ experiences, and explore practical advice to help you make the best choice for your family.
Understanding Double Strollers
Any parent is familiar with the lifesaver that is a standard stroller. But now, let’s zoom in on the double stroller, a unique twist on the classic, and unpack its pros and cons for those with double the fun and double the adventure.
Pros
Five-Point Harnesses: Provide unmatched security, ensuring children stay safely in place during walks or jogs.
Padded and Reclining Seats for Extra Comfort: Offer a snug and comfortable ride, easily recline and nap, making longer trips more enjoyable for little kids.
Supportive Seatbacks: Essential for both newborns and toddlers, offering the necessary support and letting children sit comfortably.
Newborn Suitability: Specifically designed to cater to the delicate needs of newborns, offering a safe and secure environment. Compatible with an infant car seat, making it a perfect travel system without interrupting the baby’s sleep.
Compactness: Many models are designed to be as compact as possible, making it easier to navigate through narrow aisles and crowded places.
Maneuverability: Feature advanced designs that allow for smooth and easy maneuvering in various environments.
Large Storage Room: Double strollers often come with ample storage space, making it easier to carry all the essentials for both children during outings. It’s so useful in the winter, as we can put all our jackets in the large basket underneath.
Piggyback Feature: Some models come with a piggyback or ride-along board, allowing an older child to stand and ride, adding versatility for growing families.
Cons
Storage Issues: Many double strollers are quite large and heavy. They can be difficult to store in smaller spaces, including car trunks and home storage areas.
Limited Sibling Interaction: The design of some double strollers can restrict the ability of siblings to interact with each other during outings. A side-by-side double stroller is better for interaction. But there are still a lot of boundaries between the young kiddos.
Toddler Resistance: Older children may resist being confined in a stroller, preferring to walk and explore independently.
Difficult to Travel With: Their size and weight can make double strollers cumbersome to travel with, particularly when dealing with public transportation or air travel.
Additional Seat Purchased Separately: Most double strollers don’t come with 2 seats. You have to buy the additional seat and adapter separately.
Exploring Stroller Wagons
Click here to find out what are the best options for stroller wagons.
What is A Stroller Wagon?
Imagine this: a stroller and a wagon had a baby, and voilà – you’ve got a stroller wagon! Think of it as the best of both worlds; a stroller and a wagon combined into one super handy tool.
It’s incredibly spacious, so there’s plenty of room for the kids and all our gear. And the best part? It’s perfect for older children who’ve outgrown the stroller but still need a ride. It’s like a cozy chariot for them, with all the cool features of a stroller for easy steering and comfort.
Advantages and Limitations of Stroller Wagons
Advantages of Stroller Wagons
“Roomy as a Mini-Van”: These wagons are like the SUVs of the stroller world – tons of space for kids to move around (I think that’s a big part of why they like it), snacks, and all our park day essentials.
“Older Kid Approved”: Perfect for those kiddos who’ve outgrown the stroller but still need a ride. It’s like their own little throne on wheels!
“Versatility Queen”: Not just for kids – I’ve hauled groceries, beach gear, you name it. It’s the Swiss Army knife of baby gear.
“Durability for Days”: These wagons are tough cookies, ready to handle all the wear and tear our little rascals can throw at them.
“Adventurous”: Stroller wagons are equipped with all-terrain wheels. The rugged larger wheels can handle uneven surfaces much better than strollers.
Limitations of Stroller Wagons
“Not a Fan of Cramped Spaces”: They can be a bit bulky, so squeezing into tight spots or crowded places? Not the easiest.
“Travel Troubles”: Taking it on public transport or fitting it in the car can be a bit of a jigsaw puzzle.
“Weighty Matters”: They’re sturdy, but that also means they can be heavy to lug around – definitely a workout!
“Style Over Space”: While they look super cool, sometimes the size can be a bit much for quick trips or small errands.
“Disney World No-Go”: Planning a trip to Disney World? Keep in mind, these wagons aren’t allowed in the park, so you’ll need a backup plan for your little mouseketeers.
Comparative Analysis
Features and Benefits Comparison
Common Features between wagon strollers and double strollers
Safety Harnesses: Both double strollers and stroller wagons typically come equipped with safety harnesses to keep children secure. All double strollers have 5-point harnesses. Some stroller wagons have 5-point harnesses, some have 3-point harnesses.
Storage Options: Both offer storage solutions, though the capacity may vary.
Durability: Designed to withstand regular use, both are built to last with sturdy construction.
Natural Seating Position: Most stroller wagons have a footwell, promoting a natural sitting position, similar to double strollers.
Pushing Mechanism: Both stroller wagons and double strollers can be pushed, offering ease of maneuverability.
Newborn Suitability: Most stroller wagons require to buy infant car seat adapters separately. A few stroller wagons are not compatible with infant car seats. Make sure to check before purchasing.
Benefits Unique to Double Strollers
Maneuverability: Generally easier to maneuver, especially in crowded city streets or narrow spaces.
Compact Design: More likely to be compact and easier to fold, making them convenient for travel and storage.
Newborn Suitability: Better suited for newborns, offering snug and secure seating.
Reclining Seats: Often feature reclining seats, ideal for naps and on-the-go diaper changes.
Larger Storage Space: The underneath basket in double strollers can store significantly more items than the storage baskets typically found in stroller wagons.
Benefits Unique to Stroller Wagons
Spaciousness: Offer more room for children to sit and play, as well as extra space for carrying belongings.
Versatility: Can be used for a variety of purposes beyond child transport, like hauling groceries or beach gear.
Terrain Adaptability: Some models are designed to handle rough terrain better than double strollers.
Social Interaction: Allow children to interact more freely with each other and the environment.
Higher Capacity: The largest stroller wagons in the market can accommodate up to 4 kids, surpassing the capacity of double strollers, which typically fit up to 3 kids with a piggyback addition.
Price Differences between stroller wagons and double strollers
Cost Variation: There is a wide range in prices for both double strollers and stroller wagons. Generally, stroller wagons can be more expensive due to their versatility and additional features.
Investment Value: The choice between the two may depend on the specific needs of the family and the intended usage duration.
Practicality for Different Family Scenarios
So, you’re trying to figure out whether a double stroller or a stroller wagon is the way to go, right? Well, it really depends on your crew.
1. Family with a Newborn
If you’ve got a newborn or a tiny tot, a double stroller is probably your best bet. It’s cozy, safe, and perfect for those little ones who still need a lot of support.
Plus, if you’re living in the city and constantly weaving through crowds or hopping on buses, you’ll appreciate how easy it is to maneuver.
2. Family with Mixed Ages of Kids
Now, if you have multiple children and some are a bit older, you might want to check out stroller wagons. These bad boys are spacious, so everyone has room to stretch out.
They’re great for families who love spending time outdoors – think picnics, even the beach days, you name it. And if you’ve got a bigger family, some of these wagons can fit up to four kids, which is pretty awesome.
3. Family with Twins
Got twins? Here’s the deal: during their newborn stage, stroller wagons might not be the best pick.
Most of them can only handle one infant car seat, so they’re not quite twin-friendly when your little ones are still tiny and need to lie flat.
But, once your twins are old enough to sit up on their own, that’s when the stroller wagon can really come into play. It gives them plenty of space to sit, play, and interact with each other, making it a fantastic option for outings as they grow.
For those early months, though, you’re probably going to lean more toward a double stroller – it’s just more practical and supportive for two infants.
Real Parent Experiences
My Own Experience
I wish I had known about stroller wagons before I had my first baby. I would not have bought my UPPAbaby V2 stroller.
I knew I wanted to have 2 kids close age. So I got my expensive UPPAbaby double stroller.
My two kids are 16 months apart. I have only used the double seats feature less than 10 times. What a waste of money!
I have been dying to use the double seats feature. But my 2-year-old daughter refused to sit in the seat. Even if she does, she doesn’t sit there for long.
Magic happened when we used Gladly Family Anthem 4 Stroller Wagon during our family vacation. Both of my kids enjoyed sitting in the stroller wagon.
They were playing with each other in the wagon, which they can’t do in a double stroller. It’s really fun to see how my older daughter leaning on my younger son.
Gladly Family Wagon was super easy to pull on the beach with loaded 4 kids. I don’t think the UPPAbaby V2 stroller can push on the beach at all.
Other Parents Stories
From Lucie’s List
“The Wonderfold stroller wagon line is a great option for those in need of a supplemental stroller option: it’s a solid-quality product with a smooth push (on the right terrain) and a lot of versatility at a competitive price point. It’s best for leisurely use in mostly flat/smoothly paved areas, day trips, and older kids who’ve outgrown their stroller seats”
From Cubby at Home
“a few months earlier when my twins started to resist the stroller. Around the same time, my older son who was five started complaining about how he was too tired to stand on the kick board. If only they could change places!”
“My kids get really giddy and playful when they’re in the Veer wagon together, like they’re in their own little world. The only fighting is over who gets to sit where, and it gets resolved, for the most part, by taking turns. The first time we used the rain cover, it was laughter all the way home. “
Making the Right Choice for Your Family
Alright, so when it comes down to picking between a double stroller and a stroller wagon, it’s all about what fits your family’s vibe.
Family Size
Think about how many little ones you’ve got and their ages. If you’re juggling a newborn and a toddler, or twins, a double stroller might be your go-to for keeping both snug and secure.
But, if your crew is older and loves a bit more wiggle room, a stroller wagon can be a total game-changer.
Lifestyle
Now, where do you spend most of your time? If you’re a city dweller, weaving through busy sidewalks, and popping into cozy cafes, a double stroller’s maneuverability is a lifesaver.
But hey, if you’re more about those outdoor adventures or need something that can handle a bit of everything – from grassy parks to beach trips – a stroller wagon has got your back on uneven surfaces.
Storage Space
And let’s not forget about storage space. If you’re tight on the room at home or in the car, you’ll want something that folds up neat and tidy. Double strollers often win in the compactness department.
Recommendations Based on Needs
So, here’s the deal: weigh up your family size, the kids’ ages, your usual haunts, and how much space you’ve got. Whether it’s the streamlined double stroller or the versatile stroller wagon, the right choice is the one that makes your family outings a breeze and brings a smile to your little ones’ faces.
Wrapping Up
I hope you have a better idea of the double stroller vs stroller wagon now. If I could do it again, I would ditch my double stroller.
Instead, I would buy a single stroller. When the kids are a little older (like now, 14 months old and 2.5 years old), I would get a stroller wagon.
Another great idea to find out whether a double stroller or wagon stroller is right for you is to rent one to try it out! Use Baby Quip or Rent 4 Baby to try these out before you buy one. It is a big investment after all!
