Help choosing a double stroller

[kdzgon]

We are traveling to WDW in Sept, bringing along 2 grandsons. Each is 3 yrs old, and neither is "small" for his age. One is approx 40-41", the other 39" or so, but "solid". Each weighs between 35-38 lbs. We are staying at the Contemporary (8 nights). My DH is a diabetic with a few health issues, so we don't want to have to be carrying tired children - hopefully, the stroller will help. I don't want to rent one, as I want one for use in the airport, hotel, etc.

It has been 25 yrs or so since I owned a twin stroller (and nearly 17 yrs since last WDW visit!), so I am looking for suggestions. I think I'd prefer a side-by-side, I'd like to stay under $200, want reclining seats, sun canopy (2 would be great, but can deal with 1), comfortable seats, good maneuverability, and decent folding size/convenience. Is this too much to ask for in a double stroller? If not, I'd love some feed back!

Thanks so much -

 

[babiesX2]

Hi,
We have these 2 strollers. The duoglider stays in our van and we like to use it in stores because it is less intrusive to others. The Duorider we keep in the garage and use it for walks around the neighborhood. I am planning on taking it to WDW when we go later this year. Babyage.com ships for I think $6. They have the best prices - unless you luck up and find one on clearance.

http://www.babyage.com/products/6551cln_graco_graco_duorider_side_by_side_double_stroller.htm


http://www.babyage.com/products/7916cap_graco_graco_duoglider_lx_stroller.htm

 

[KJMAX1]

Have you thought of taking two single umbrella strollers with the baskets underneath, and the sunshades, with reclining seats? I know my DH and I are in our very early 30s, but we both enjoy pushing a stroller because its something to lean on, and frankly its easier to push through crowds. Plus you can have two baskets to store a diaper bag and kid stuff you buy in the other one. Also, these would fold easily enough to be able to get onto a bus if you are using one to get around!

What nice grandparents you are! I am sure you will build wonderful memories for your two little ones! Have the best time!

 

[momofbgtwins]

The duoglider previously mentioned is a great, solid stroller, but it is bigger and heavier than an umbrella stroller. I have 3 (almost 4) yo twins about the same sizes as your grandsons. I have also been doing extensive research on double strollers. Just a warning - it is very difficult to find an inexpensive double stroller that can handle the weight and height size of your grandsons, and still be easy to push. We had to retire our Kolcraft double after our trip in March. My 6'4", 220 lb DH had a hard time pushing it. The Jeep double that looks soooo nice is the same as the Kolcraft. The only strollers that looked like it could handle the kids now, and for future trips in the next few years, was the Maclaren Twin Traveller (2005) which was replaced by the Twin Techno (2006). There is a Maclaren Rally Twin that gets good reviews, also, but it is narrower than the other two. It might just work for you because you have a one-time need, and aren't worried about needing it for years to come. You can see them all at www.Albeebaby.com. The Rally Twin is under $200 on that site. Good luck!

 

[kdzgon]

Thanks for the quick responses! I really don't want to use umbrella strollers as they are not as comfortable and usually don't recline. Also, while I will not use this stroller as frequently as a mom of 2 small children, it will not be a "one time use". We had 3 daughters join the military, and each married an active-duty military member (some are finished, some are still in, two are career). Our (current) grandchildren are scattered over 4 states, are 3,3,1 1/2, and 1, and one of the 3 yr olds currently lives with us. The other 3 yr old and the 1 yr old sometimes stays with us a week or two at a time. The twin stroller will be used when multiple grandchildren visit. We are also planning a (smaller) family cruise for 01/07 and a trip to WDW (9/07 or sometime in 2008) where I am sure the stroller will get used again for one or more grandchildren (though there will be plenty of help as the parents will be there!).

The stroller is as much for our convenience as their comfort. This trip is also as much for us as for them - these 2 boys love spending time together, and we love sharing with them. The parents get a break, too (although 1 mom is currently stationed on a ship getting ready to deploy). Last summer we spent time at home and then took them to Va Beach for a week. This trip is much more ambitious, but we are really excited. I have been to WDW 3 times when my chilren were young (all before MGM etc) and my dh has been once, when Epcot first opened, so it has been a very, very LONG time!

Thanks again for your help - I'm sure I'll be around with plenty more questions between now and Sept!