You have a growing family. Maybe you already have one baby and are planning for your next, or you just found out you have two on the way, but you know you need a bigger stroller. Like any other piece of baby equipment you need to know that it’s a safe and effective option for your little one.
But, unlike a lot of baby equipment, you also need to be thinking about what you need.
After all, you’re going to be the one providing all the horsepower behind your stroller!
Side by side strollers are great, but they can be hard to maneuver and bulky to store. A convertible stroller will usually give you more options. They’re easier to steer. Plus, many convertible strollers will fold up smaller in the back of your car or fit into a closet.
We’ve taken a close look at some of the best convertible strollers you can get right now. We’ve compared them, and looked at the pros and cons of each model. We’ll cover everything you need to know to make a good decision for you, your little one, and your whole family.
| Bargain |
|---|
 |
| Graco Uno2Duo Travel System |
| 4.9/5.0 |
| Check Amazon |
| Best Value |
|---|
 |
| Evenflo Pivot Xpand Modular Travel System |
| 4.7/5.0 |
| Check Amazon |
| Top Pick |
|---|
 |
| Baby Jogger City Select Stroller |
| 4.8/5.0 |
| Check Amazon |
Quick Comparison:
This comparison table goes over some of the basic information about each stroller. If you’re looking to narrow your list down even further before we get started, this table is for you.
| The Strollers | Stroller Style | Weight Capacity | Check the Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Evenflo Pivot Xpand Modular Travel System | Modular, frame supports both seat and car seat | Up to 55 lbs total | Check the Price |
| Graco Uno2Duo Travel System | Modular, frame supports the seat and car seat | Infant Seat up to 35 lbs Up to 50 lbs main seat Up to 50 lbs total |
Check the Price |
| Baby Jogger City Select Stroller | Several double seat conversion options (sold separately) | 45 lbs per seat | Check the Price |
| Britax B-Lively Travel System with B-Safe 35 Infant Car Seat | Traditional stroller seat OR included car seat | Infant Seat up to 35 lbs Stroller Seat up to 55 lbs |
Check the Price |
| Chicco Bravo Trio Travel System with Full-Size Stroller | Traditional stroller seat OR included car seat | Up to 50 lbs total | Check the Price |
| UPPAbaby Full-Size Cruz Toddler Baby Stroller & MESA Car Seat Bundle | Traditional stroller seat OR included car seat | Infant Seat up to 35 lbs Toddler Sear up to 50 lbs |
Check the Price |
| Phil&Teds Dot Compact Inline City Stroller with Double Kit | Modular, frame supports both seat and car seat, double kit included | Up to 44 lbs per seat | Check the Price |
The Strollers
Each of these strollers has its strengths and weaknesses, but we know that no one stroller is perfect. While we offer ratings on each stroller and give some special recognition in this list, that doesn’t mean that the stroller we like best is the right one for you.
Pick the stroller that fits your needs and lifestyle most closely and you’ll be in good shape.
1. Evenflo Pivot Xpand Modular Travel System – Best Value
Editor’s Rating: 4.7
This option is a good deal because there are two different ways to buy this stroller. You can buy the modular travel kit right away if you already know that you’ll have multiple little ones in the next few years. Or, if you’re not sure, or just want to cut the initial costs of your stroller, you can purchase the additional car seat later.
That makes this a good choice for families that are still in the planning stage. It’s also a good way to spread the costs of a new baby out across multiple children.
This system comes in two colors, a light heat-resistant gray, and a darker potentially more stylish back model. We recommend going with the gray color because that will be less heat absorbent than the black model, but both are functional and attractive options.
The basic frame expands 2 feet. It has a lot of room to attach the car seat when you need a double stroller. You’ll also have plenty of storage for long walks, family picnics, and other trips. Tuck spare clothes, extra blankets, food, and drinks in the storage area so you don’t have to carry another heavy bag with you.
However, we do want to note that this system has a slightly lower weight capacity than many convertible strollers. With a weight cap of 55 lbs, it will work for two small kids. But, it may not be up to the challenge of a toddler that absolutely needs their stroller and a toddler that only sometimes needs it.
Considering every possible arrangement of this stroller, you have 22 different configurations to choose from. That way you can re-arrange for different situations and improve your little one’s comfort level on the go.
This stroller makes our best value designation because it’s significantly more affordable than many similar alternatives, while still offering the benefits and functions of a more premium stroller. While that doesn’t mean that this stroller is cheap, convertible strollers are generally more expensive than single stroller designs, it is more wallet-friendly than many.
| Pros |
|---|
| Lots of configurations |
| Large under storage basket |
| Large multi-terrain wheels |
| Option of adding a second toddler seat |
| Easy to steer |
| Cons |
|---|
| Toddler seats are on the small side |
| Car seat attachment can be difficult |
| The latch is in the folding area, requires extra care |
| Specs |
|---|
| 42.6 pounds |
| Minimum weight, 4 lbs |
| 2 ft long storage basket |
| Comes with stroller, toddler seat, and car seat |
2. Graco Uno2Duo Travel System – Best Bargain
Editor’s Rating: 4.9
This stroller is a good option for growing families with children who are close together in age, or who are worried about having infant safe options in their stroller. The included car seat, and the option of a bassinet setting, make it easier to support your little one for however long they need a stroller.
You’ll have the option of parent-facing and forward-facing options in multiple different configurations. That means you can help your little one bond with and focus on you when they’re very small and turn them around to learn about the world as they get older.
The material in this stroller isn’t designed to be washed with caustic or harsh chemicals. No bleach. You should be able to wipe it clean with a washcloth and some basic detergent when needed. Fortunately, the stain-resistant all-weather fabric shouldn’t need your attention very often.
The car seat that comes with this set is also a good option for use in your car as your main car seat. It’s been crash and safety tested, including safety in hot car environments. That way you don’t have to take the car seat with you between different stops, or when you’re going to be home for a few days.
There is a total of 18 different configurations for this stroller, between the options for a single seat and a dual seat stroller. That way you have plenty of options for keeping your little ones comfortable, no matter their age.
This stroller made our best bargain rating thanks to the wide combination of configurations, easy to maintain structure, and ease of steering. While this stroller isn’t perfect, it’s a little bulky and heavier than many strollers, it’s a good option for growing families.
We also found that this setup was more reliable over time than many alternatives, without breaking the bank the way many convertible strollers can.
| Pros |
|---|
| Lots of options for reconfiguring the stroller |
| Durable easy to clean fabric |
| Sturdy construction |
| Car seat is tested for safety |
| Infant-safe bassinet settings included |
| Easy to steer |
| Cons |
|---|
| Bulky, both folded and ready for use |
| Not a good option for shorter parents |
| Specs |
|---|
| Comes with stroller, main toddler seat, and safety-tested car seat |
| Plastic wheels |
| Removable child tray |
| Large under-seat storage area |
3. Baby Jogger City Select Stroller – Top Pick
Editor’s Rating: 4.8
This stroller offers several different conversion kits to meet your changing needs when your family starts growing. You’ll be able to take advantage of several different configurations with each seat type you purchase and have a lot more control over the type of seating your child enjoys in their stroller.
We also appreciate that this is one of the relatively few strollers that comes in a range of colors. While the appearance of your stroller should be fairly low on your list of priorities, color can have a functional impact.
Blacks and other dark colors can be much more heat absorbent than lighter or less intense color choices. So, while you might be tempted to pick a color based on personal preference, we recommend going with a lighter, less intense, option.
That way you won’t need to worry about the inside of the stroller heating up too much while you walk.
This stroller is one of the higher-weight capacity options we’ve seen. Able to accommodate up to 45 lbs per seat, that’s a total weight capacity of 100 lbs. That means that your little one will be able to enjoy their walks a lot longer, even when they only need the stroller for a little while.
The UB 50+ canopy is also adjustable. As your little one gets taller, you’ll be able to pull the canopy higher, protecting them that much longer.
While this stroller only comes with a single-seat, we also found that the multiple options for seat configurations made it possible to start your baby on a stroller sooner and keep them in it longer.
| Pros |
|---|
| Telescoping handle perfect for taller parents |
| Folds into a compact space |
| Adjustable canopy |
| All-terrain wheels |
| Multiple color options |
| Wide variety of second seat options |
| Cons |
|---|
| Doesn’t come with a second seat to start with |
| Specs |
|---|
| 34.1 lbs |
| Canopy and first seat included |
| This is the 2016 model |
| Under-seat basket included |
| Maximum weight is 45 per seat unless otherwise noted on the seat |
4. Britax B-Lively Travel System with B-Safe 35 Infant Car Seat
Editor’s Rating: 4.5
This travel system is a little different from some of the other strollers we’ve discussed on this list. It is a convertible stroller, but it’s convertible between an infant stroller and a toddler stroller, rather than between 1 and 2 seats.
That said, this is still a good option for growing families since the travel kit includes a car seat that can be carried along with the stroller. It’s not a good option for families with twins, or children within 1 year of age of each other. But it works for families that are growing just as one child is about ready to go without a stroller on walks.
Unfortunately, the color options on this stroller are mostly black, with 1 gray and 1 red option. In terms of temperature control, we’d recommend using the gray color if possible.
That said, this is a good option for families that like to go hiking, to the zoo, or anywhere else that terrain might be unpredictable. While it doesn’t have the large wheels and suspension of a true all-terrain stroller, it comes close. The suspension system does absorb most impacts to protect your little one.
Plus, it’s not as expensive as most all-terrain or jogging strollers.
Designed to accommodate your little one from birth to 55 lbs., this is a good option for parents who want to start walks as soon as possible after birth.
| Pros |
|---|
| Comes with the car seat |
| Designed for all-terrain types, good for outdoorsy parents |
| Safe install car seat fasteners |
| Car seat safety tested for impact |
| Steel frame for added durability |
| Cons |
|---|
| Not many color options |
| Can’t hold 2 children at once |
| Folding lever can be difficult to reach |
| Specs |
|---|
| 30 lbs |
| Suitable up to 50 lbs |
| Comes with the car seat |
| 2 forward wheels add mobility |
5. Chicco Bravo Trio Travel System with Full-Size Stroller
Editor’s Rating: 4.6
This travel system is designed to stay with you a little one from 4 pounds to 50. The car seat that comes with the travel system snaps securely into the main seat of the stroller. You’ll have the option of forward-facing and parent-facing arrangements.
The main seat has a multi-setting reclining back for added comfort at all ages. That makes it a safer option when your baby first transitions out of their car seat and into the regular stroller seat. It’s also a good choice if your little one tends to take a nap halfway through your favorite walk.
The whole stroller is designed to support a one-handed quick fold. That’s important when you consider that you’re likely to be juggling a baby and a diaper bag when it’s time to fold the stroller.
The stroller comes in a variety of neutrals, each of which is designed to help dissipate heat from the area immediately around your little one. While you still might be better off going with a lighter color combination, especially if you live in a sunny area, none of these options are particularly better or worse than the others.
This system includes Chicco’s #1 infant car seat, which gives baby some added safety and security in the car as well as the stroller.
| Pros |
|---|
| Comes with a safety-tested car seat |
| Colors are designed to dissipate heat |
| Durable |
| Easy to clean materials |
| Option of several configurations |
| One-handed folding mechanism |
| Cons |
|---|
| Canopy makes a loud clicking noise |
| Suspension isn’t great, ride can be a little bumpy |
| Specs |
|---|
| 47.1 lbs |
| Up to 50 lbs maximum weight |
| Comes with a child tray |
| Includes 2 cup holders |
| 1 hand fold design |
6. UPPAbaby Full-Size Cruz Toddler Baby Stroller & MESA Car Seat Bundle
Editor’s Rating: 4.4
This premium stroller is a good option for families that are looking for a stroller that can do a little bit of everything.
The handlebars are particularly comfortable on this model, with molded leather coverings. That means your hands will be able to go longer before they get tired or sore. Not to mention the large carry basket underneath that’s designed to hold everything you and baby need for your walk.
However, this stroller is noticeably more expensive than most alternatives. Especially since it works best as a convertible from an infant to a toddler stroller, not a two-person stroller.
The seat does offer multiple reclining positions. That means that you can transition your baby to the stroller more comfortably. It’s also a good option if your little one likes to take a walk during their nap, or if you’re trying to encourage them to go to sleep.
The harness system and seat are also designed to work for even the smallest babies. If your little one was born a preemie, or you’re at high risk for premature birth, this stroller might be a good option. That way you’ll be able to get them out walking and ready sooner.
| Pros |
|---|
| Provides good support even for premature babies |
| Extra safety precautions for your little one |
| Comes with a safety-tested car seat |
| Extra comfortable leather hand grip over the handlebars |
| Includes a bassinet |
| Extra-large storage basket in the bottom |
| Cons |
|---|
| Low weight capacity |
| Main body of the stroller is black |
| Price changes with different color options |
| Specs |
|---|
| 56.5 lbs |
| Comes with a bassinet |
| Comes with a toddler seat |
| Comes with a car seat |
| Front and rear-facing configurations |
7. Phil&Teds Dot Compact Inline City Stroller with Double Kit
Editor’s Rating: 4.6
This stroller set is something a little different than your typical stroller. Instead of having the typical tripod design, this is an inline stroller. That means you get a lot of maneuverability and a more compact profile. However, this stroller isn’t as suitable for uneven terrain, despite the large wheel profile. That’s why this stroller should be considered a strictly City stroller.
That said, while this is City stroller, it’s also a good option for parents who are constantly on the go, or who need a more compact option for storing in the trunk as you go from place to place.
The wheels are puncture-proof and designed to last for the entire lifetime of the stroller. That cuts down on replacement and maintenance costs.
While the inline design is more compact than most strollers, this convertible stroller still allows you to add a second child seat behind the first. We’ve picked a version of the stroller that comes with the conversion kit, but they can also be purchased separately if you’d prefer.
There are three different colors with this stroller, but all they change is the color of the interior seat. The exterior is black, so you should prepare with some temperature control options for hot summer walks with your little one.
| Pros |
|---|
| Compact design |
| 1 hand folding |
| Works with two car seats |
| Conversion kit comes with the stroller (in this package) |
| Lightweight |
| Fits through doors and other entrances |
| Puncture-proof wheels |
| Cons |
|---|
| Outer color is always black |
| Can be difficult to balance with rambunctious kids |
| Not designed for hikes or uneven terrain |
| Specs |
|---|
| 27 lbs |
| Maximum weight 44 lbs |
| Double seat conversion kit included |
| Second seat separate |
Final Thoughts:
Your stroller is an important and personal decision. There are a lot of different things to consider when you’re bringing a new little one into the family, but that can make a lot of decisions more overwhelming. It’s okay to take a step back and take a little time to figure out which stroller is the right one for you and your family.
Most important is to trust your gut and do your research. While we stand by each of these strollers as some of the best options on the market, we also know that no stroller is perfect.
Consider things like the color and durability of the fabric when you pick your stroller. Lighter colors stain more easily, but they are also less heat absorbent than dark fabrics. Steel construction is more durable than aluminum options, but it can be slightly heavier.
You should also keep an eye out for simple one-handed folding mechanisms. While you might not actually fold these strollers with one hand, strollers that are advertised that way are usually easier to work with than strollers that aren’t.
Consider whether you want a multi-configuration option, or if saving money on a fixed position stroller might be more important.
Multi-configurations make it easier to let your kid nap and to change between parent facing and forward-facing designs. But they can also add weight and difficulty to the stroller, making it less portable and less user friendly. They’re also usually more expensive than single configuration strollers.
Hopefully, having read this article, you feel more empowered to make a good choice for your growing family.
