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While your little tot gets to grips with the big, wide world, your stroller is family HQ. It’s not only a comfy spot for them to take in the scenery, but also a mobile snack dispenser, toy chest, and shield against the elements.

With kids growing up so fast, parents want to make sure they get optimal use out of any baby gear. As a result, convertible strollers have become increasingly popular. These are multi-purpose models that adapt to the changing needs of your family, from birth to toddler and siblings thereafter.

Complicated or cumbersome strollers quickly turn family adventures sour, whereas finding the best convertible stroller to match your family personality keeps everyone happy while cruising around.

These wheels are going to be a huge part of family life in the crucial early years, so it’s OK to take your time choosing the perfect stroller. We’ve narrowed in on the best convertible strollers we could find, which hopefully makes things that little bit easier!

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Best Overall: UPPAbaby Vista V2

DIMENSIONS: 36″ L x 25.7″ W x 39.5″ H

WEIGHT: 12.2 kg; 27 lbs 

MAX LOAD: 22.6 kg; 50 lbs 

SEAT MODES: Single, Double or Triple

PRICE: $$$$

PROS: Expert suspension system; reversible RumbleSeat; large UPF50+ canopy for total sun protection; 6 recline positions; 5-point harness; incredible 30lb storage basket; Dual-accessorizing ideal for twins

CONS: A little heavy; RumbleSeat only supports 35 lbs

The UPPAbaby Vista V2 is a bit of a legend in the stroller scene, and for good reason. Aside from being packed with design features that just make good sense, the ride quality is exceptionally smooth and the various luxury accents give this convertible stroller a truly refined feel.  

As your family grows, you’ll be able to use the UPPAbaby Vista V2 with infant car seats, bassinets, RumbleSeats, or any combination thereof. The fact you can double down on the same accessories makes it a prime choice for twins. If you’re wanting to accommodate a third child, you have the option to add their PiggyBack board for full family cruising.

This level of practicality is characteristic of convertible strollers, but it’s rarely paired the level of class we find on the UPPAbaby Vista V2. The aluminum frame is remarkably sturdy, the telescopic handlebar has full-grain leather for enhanced grip, and the extendable UPF 50+ canopy has fantastic ventilation with two peekaboo windows.

Obviously the comfort of your baby is paramount, so there are 6 recline positions, adjustable with only one hand. Enthusiastic nappers will be happy to hear that the seat of the UPPAbaby Vista V2 tips back flat, so you can reposition your tot without waking them. 

As for how it handles, the stroller has large wheel diameter, no-flat rubber tires, all-wheel suspension, and single-action foot brakes. Despite being a little heavier than the competition, this convertible stroller retains high manoeuvrability, where it can confidently navigate the bumpy grass and gravel of more adventurous routes.

A commitment to smart design and top-grade materials make the UPPAbaby Vista V2  a comprehensive family travel system, offering lots of intuitive configurations while preserving the comfort and convenience of a single stroller.

Best for Style: Nuna Demi Grow

DIMENSIONS: 39.5” L x 24” W x 43.5” H

WEIGHT: 12.4 kg; 27.4 lbs

MAX LOAD: 22.6 kg; 50 lbs

SEAT MODES: Single or Double

PRICE: $$$

PROS: Attractive design; sibling seat identical to main seat; fully flat seat recline; convertible 3 and 5-point harness; stackable design increases manoeuvrability; car seat adapter included

CONS: Double/twin mode accessories sold separately 

With such a focus on practicality, convertible strollers often end up sacrificing style, running the risk of looking a little clunky. The Nuna Demi Grow is a powerful reminder that function and fashion can and do go hand in hand, offering a heap of great features and an extremely attractive design. 

You need only glance at the telescopic brown leatherette accents and curvaceous frame to recognize that this is a luxury stroller. It screams sophistication, not only in terms of the aesthetics but also size. The sibling seat stacks under the main seat so the Nuna Demi Grow is far more manoeuvrable than traditional double-wide strollers. 

For those wondering whether they’ll get good use out of the stroller, there are a grand total of 23 unique configurations. We’re talking bassinets, infant car seats, sibling seats and all manner of variations between. As the sibling seat is identical to the main seat, each one can support children up to 50 pounds, which is great for twins needing equal room for relaxing.

A smooth ride is guaranteed thanks to foam-filled rubber tires, a custom dual suspension system, and one-touch rear brake. You can even set the wheel mode to the specific terrain you’re covering via a rear switch. You’ll find trendy fenders and crystal clear hub caps for keeping out dirt and debris, once more proving that style and safety mix.

As part of what they call ‘next generation strolling’ (if you’ll excuse the pun), there are plenty of innovative features. Thei magnetic clasp guides itself into place and automatically locks into the convertible harness, while the UPF50+ Dream Drape™ canopy has exceptionally reach with clever eyeshade. 

The Nuna Demi Grow is the golden middle ground between convenience and chic, making sure your little ones are as comfortable as they are safe, all without compromising on overall looks.

Best for Customization: Joovy Qool

DIMENSIONS: 39.96” L x 24.80” W x 40.16” H

WEIGHT: 13.9 kg; 30.6 lbs

MAX LOAD: 25 kg; 55 lbs

SEAT MODES: Single, Double or Triple

PRICE: $$

PROS: Over 50 unique configurations; triple seat modes; reversible seats; 135 lb max load; 12” wheels for rougher terrain; rubber wheels never go flat; swivel bumper bar

CONS: Doesn’t have all-wheel suspension; only a 3-point harness 

Not content with 10, 20 or even 30 configurations, the crew behind the Joovy Qool didn’t stop until they’d found over 50 unique ways for families to enjoy this truly convertible stroller. This is an exceptional level of customization from what is obviously a very capable engineering team. 

You can add a bassinet, infant car seat, and reversible seats, attached to either the upper or lower frame mounts, depending on preference. Three is no longer a crowd as you can use a back bench seat to accommodate all the family. The metal frame has a total capacity of 135 lbs so there’s no need to worry about bending or breaking.

Aside from the tremendous functionality of the Joovy Qool, there are lots of additional features that one would hope for on a great stroller. For instance, the large 12” rear wheels and rubber tires are great for more challenging terrain, each seat accommodates children up to 55 lbs, and the handlebar is telescopic for greater parent comfort.

Those who value sleek design will also appreciate the Joovy Qool, finished in neutral grey-black tones with premium leatherette accent for a modern yet classy look. The only downside is that darker colours attract a little extra heat in the summer, though the ultra-large UPF 50+ sun canopy has plenty of ventilation and a peekaboo window. 

Parents will seriously struggle to find a stroller more capable than the Joovy Qool, a travel system that not only sets an exceptionally high standard for multipurpose design, but looks great while doing it.

Best for the City: Cybex Gazelle S

DIMENSIONS: 41” L x 25.6” W x 43.3” H

WEIGHT: 12.5 kg; 27.5 lbs

MAX LOAD: 44 kg; 97 lbs (Duo Mode)

SEAT MODES: Single, Double or Triple

PRICE: $$$

PROS: 23 configurations; up to 23 kg of storage; huge UPF 50+ sun canopy; 5-point harness; reclines flat; foam-filled rubber tyres; one-handed handlebar adjustment; compact fold

CONS: A little wider than average; folding does require seats to be in forward position

With over 20 separate configurations, the Cybex Gazelle S is a highly versatile travel system for any family. You can use bassinets and infant car seats in combination with reversible toddler seats, and even the kid-board accessory to transport as many as 3 little ones. The stroller is a solid option for twins as you can install two of the same seat. 

The Cybex Gazelle does very well in city settings, largely because of a lightweight aluminium frame, foam-filled rubber tyres and a huge amount of storage. If you’re using the stroller as a single, the included shopping basket carries up to 10 kg and the integrated stroller compartment will add another 13 kg, which is a staggering amount of space. 

The shopping basket essentially replaces your parent console, where you can effortlessly carry all the supplies you’ll need for a fun day out, plus any shopping. You can swap out the basket for seats and instantly convert your stroller into a double. This versatility is great for the fast pace of the city, from impromptu supermarket trips to weekend walks in the park. 

If you are going to spend the entire day out and about, rest assured that the Cybex Gazelle S has an extra-large UPF 50+ sun canopy, which extends all the way to the bumper. There’s a mesh window for excellent protection and comfort, and midday naps are a breeze with full flat reclining.

Size is another important consideration for city life, so you’ll be happy to learn that the Cybex Gazelle S folds extremely compactly, just by releasing the handlebar button and trigger. Once folded, the frame is self-standing and is held together with a secure clasp, easily fitting into the majority of smaller cars.

Clever configurations, chunky wheels and generous storage make the Cybex Gazelle S a city stroller that can adapt to the ups and downs of family life, a hassle-free solution for the weekly shop and all-day adventures.

Best for Ease of Use: Evenflo Pivot Xpand

DIMENSIONS: 34.0” L x 26.5” W x 41.5” H

WEIGHT: 13.6 kg; 30 lbs

MAX LOAD: 25 kg; 55 lbs

SEAT MODES: Single, Double or Triple

PRICE: $

PROS: 22 configurations; good features for price point; easy to switch between modes; ample underneath storage; rear-wheel suspension; various accessories included

CONS: Cup holder clips to frame; a little heavy

When talking about convertible strollers, a high number of combinations doesn’t mean much unless parents can switch between them easily. Enter the Evenflo Pivot Xpand, a conveniently designed travel system that can be set up in literal seconds.  

With a click, slide and lever twist, you can completely change how this stroller serves your family, without having to lug around specialist tools or additional parts. This means all of the underneath storage, extendable up to 2 feet in length, can be used for what matters. 

The no-nonsense modular design is great for growing families who value flexibility. Both main seat and car seats are reversible on the frame, sliding higher or lower depending on the preferred height, whilst the toddler seat can recline to function as a bassinet. The seat pad is machine washable, the bumper bar is removable and both upper and lower adapters are built-in.

The Evenflo Pivot Xpand definitely isn’t the lightest convertible stroller out there, yet cruiser tyres and rear suspension, and front swivel wheels ensure a smooth ride, even when navigating tighter spaces. Other comfort features include a 3-position seat recline, 5-position footrest, and a 3-position telescopic handlebar. 

For parents prioritizing practicality, the Evenflo Pivot Xpand offers everything you could want without the luxury price tag, a pleasantly intuitive stroller that puts the fun in multi-functional.

Best for Comfort: Maxi-Cosi Lila

DIMENSIONS: 40.94” L x 24.2” W x 41.5” H

WEIGHT: 12.5 kg; 27.5 lbs

MAX LOAD: 15 kg; 33 lbs

SEAT MODES: Single or Double

PRICE: $$

PROS: 8 distinctive modes; all-wheel suspension; full-cover privacy shade; storage is a removable tote; reversible seat liner for all seasons; plenty of included accessories

CONS: Recline lever is a little low down; peekaboo window is small

As the name suggests, the Maxi-Cosi Lila is the king of comfort, featuring exceptional fabric materials, clever design elements and smooth all-wheel suspension. There is a bunch of features that come together to maximize comfort, perfect for keeping your little one happy.

This convertible stroller has 8 distinctive set ups, revolving around the main seat, which doubles as a bassinet, infant car seats and duo seats. It’s exceptionally simple to simplify when you haven’t got all the kids with you, just as it is easy to add on exactly what you need for big family day trips. 

Infants are fully supported by the plush ShapeOfYou memory foam inlay, whilst older kids are kept comfy in any weather thanks to the reversible thermo-regulated mattress, a breathable 3D mesh for summer and fleece fabric for winter.

All the while the padded 5-point harness is keeping them secure, easily adjusted as they get bigger. Even parents find comfort in many of the Maxi-Cosi Lila features, chiefly the undercarriage storage that removes as a tote, telescopic leatherette handle, and adult cup holder.

Comfort and safety are often one and the same, which explains the extensive safety features found on the Maxi-Cosi Lila. The full-cover UPF 50+ canopy protects from the sun but also extends for total napping privacy, light-reflecting strips keep you visible in darker conditions, and the one-touch brakes are flip-flop-friendly.

The Maxi-Cosi Lila has clearly been built with solid construction and durable materials in mind. It’s a convertible stroller that will outlast most of the competition, continuing to keep your precious babies comfortable as they grow.

Best for Handling: Baby Jogger City Select 2

DIMENSIONS: 43” L x 23.8” W x 41.1” H

WEIGHT: 12.1 kg; 26.7 lbs

MAX LOAD: 40.8 kg; 90 lbs

SEAT MODES: Single, Double or Triple

PRICE: $$$

PROS: 24 configurations; lightweight design; premium leatherette handle with hand-operated braking system; all-terrain wheels; 5-point harness; UPF 50+ canopy with magnetic window; independent recline for two seats

CONS: a little tricky to set up; no rear suspension 

Although this brand is best known for jogging strollers, the Baby Jogger City Select 2 is proof that their wealth of expertise extends to highly functional convertibles. It seems that a jogging tech has made it over, namely the hand-operated decelerating & parking brake, which enables parents to control the stroller far more conveniently.

The handling is exceptional on the Baby Jogger City Select 2, which uses all-terrain sealed bearing wheels and shock-absorbing front wheel suspension. Parents can set the telescopic leatherette handlebar to their preferred positon, while the entire profile of the stroller is slim for easy steering around tight corners. It’s also the lightest stroller on our list, which further aids manoeuvrability.

Families can create 24 unique configurations, using bassinets, infant car seats and sibling seats together with the main seat. In any case, the tandem design doesn’t hinder handling, where the stroller will feel like a single even with two happy passengers. 

Having built strollers for almost 40 years, Baby Jogger has included lots of nifty design elements on the City Select 2. The UPF 50+ canopy has a magnetic peekaboo window for undisturbed slumber, multi-position recline with adjustable calf support to ensure baby comfort, and the folded dimensions are impressively compact.

The under-seat compartment holds as much as 15 lbs, more than enough for essential supplies and a cuddly friend or two. As the weight is low to the ground, handling stays sharp, but you can always store more in the mesh seat back pocket.

The Baby Jogger City Select 2 is the result of continuous design improvements over many years, a joyously versatile vehicle that offers superior handling, comfort and luxury finish.

Best on a Budget: Joovy Caboose Too

DIMENSIONS: 38″ L x 21.25″ W x 42″ H

WEIGHT: 12.5 kg; 27.5 lbs

MAX LOAD: 40.8 kg; 90 lbs

SEAT MODES: Single or Double

PRICE: $

PROS: 6+ configurations; bearing wheels for one-handed push; 5-point harness; incredibly compact folding, even with both seats installed; 100% flame-retardant chemical-free materials; car seat adapter included

CONS: Small wheels may struggle with bumps; sun canopy could be bigger

At first glance, you might mistake the attractively angular design of the Joovy Caboose Too for a wagon. Supported by a sturdy aluminium frame and fitted with sealed bearing wheels, it may be wagon-grade durable, but it has all the features one would expect of any high-capacity stroller.

Clever configuration allows parents to get years of enjoyment from the Joovy Caboose Too. You are free to glide as a single stroller or use the included rear full seat, complete with 5-point harness and recline options. Each seat supports 45 lbs, but when your tot grows out of them, they can ride on the rear bench seat or stand on the integrated platform.

Despite ample seat room and storage space underneath, it is incredibly compact when folded, virtually flat and easily stored in the smallest of cars. Clever engineering is matched by a genuine commitment towards a product built to last, made from 100% flame-retardant chemical-free materials and backed by a generous 2 year warranty.

The low price tag does mean they’ve had to sacrifice the kind of refinement found on luxury models. Though if functionality is your principal concern, you’ll be very satisfied with the foam-covered handles, seat back pocket, extendable canopy, front swivel wheels, and the others touches making life a little easier.

Although a fraction of the cost of high-end models, the Joovy Caboose Too double stroller provides all the fundamental features for full family fun, delivering in fun modular design that your child can actually interact with.

BUYING ADVICE FOR CONVERTIBLE STROLLERS

Convertible Stroller Capacity

SEAT CAPACITY: Manufacturers will let you know how much weight each stroller seat can support, which is typically no greater than 55 lbs (25 kg). Second seats do not always hold the same weight rating as the main seat, so be especially careful if you’re looking for a convertible stroller for twins.

STORAGE CAPACITY: If you see higher load capacities quoted, it may be that seat capacity has been added to storage capacity. Under-seat compartments can accommodate somewhere between 10 and 14 kg (22 and 30 lbs) of weight, whilst smaller pockets and parent consoles can only hold a few items.

EXCEEDING CAPACITY: The consequence of overburdening your stroller is that you may stress the frame or damage parts otherwise. If you weigh your child, you can get a better idea of how much extra cargo your stroller is likely able to safely support.

Convertible Stroller Weight

TPYICAL WEIGHT: The heavier a stroller is, the more difficult it is to manoeuvre, decelerate and carry. A good benchmark for a convertible stroller is somewhere between 26.5 and 30 lbs (12 and 13 kg). Most manufacturers work hard to land in this range, lest parents start struggling to move their strollers around.

ADDED WEIGHT: Do be aware that manufacturers provide the base weight, which includes the frame and single seat. As you add more seating, or accessories, the weight will increase, which may negatively impact handling. Carefully consider total stroller weight as this has the largest influence on manoeuvrability, alongside wheel design.

Convertible Stroller Dimensions

TYPICAL DIMENSIONS: Gone are the days of absurdly gigantic strollers knocking over swathes of pedestrians as they trundle down the street. Most convertible strollers fall somewhere from 35 to 45” in length, 20 to 25”in width, and 40 to 45” in height. As overall size obviously affects handling and portability, it’s important to take measurements into account when deciding on your stroller. 

FOLDED DIMENSIONS: When folded, many convertible strollers reduce to over half their size. For example, the UPPAbaby Vista V2 has assembled dimensions of 36″ L x 25.7″ W x 39.5″ H, but only measures 17.3″ L x 25.7″ W x 33.3″ H when folded with a seat, which is almost a two-thirds reduction. 

TRAVELING BY CAR: Designers are well aware that a stroller’s ability to fit into the car is make or break, so even larger models will fold down compactly. If you are particularly concerned about space, try measuring your vehicle’s space, along with any other places you plan to store or transport the stroller.

Convertible Stroller Features

SEAT: As the place where your child will be relaxing, the seat has to be perfect. Important factors include recline, reversibility, padding and footrests. Most convertible strollers offer at least 3 recline positions, though it’s possible to find as many as 6. You may want to check whether or not the seat reclines fully back, as this will allow your child to nap whenever.

Almost all convertible strollers are designed with reversible seats in mind, largely because your infant prefers to keep their eyes on you, whereas a toddler wants to start exploring. The fact that the seat is able to reverse has no negative impact on comfort or ride quality. 

HARNESS: You will either see 5-point or 3-point harnesses, the former being more secure than the latter. A 5-point harness secures at shoulders, waist and groin, whereas a 3-point doesn’t tie around the waist. 

The safety difference is somewhat negligible, though it is much easier for your child to escape the less secure harness. Harnesses are perfectly comfortable, but if you are worried you can install a belly bar for extra support. 

WHEELS & TYRES: Convertible stroller wheels come in a variety of shapes and sizes, with the general rule being that larger diameter wheels will better handle rougher ground. Sealed bearing wheels are very smooth, where parents will probably be able to push their stroller one-handed, at least over flat surfaces.

Foam-filled rubber tyres are the preferred choice for most parents, partly because they never puncture, but also because they’re typically chunkier and thus offer a smoother ride.  

A vital aspect of a front wheel is whether or not it swivels, which is almost always the case with convertible strollers. Most often, this requires the parent to physically reach down, but some models can operate the swivel-lock via the handlebar. 

BRAKES: Convertible strollers use pedal brakes, which work well for everyday outings. Rarely can you find variable hand-operated brakes, as these are more commonly seen on jogging strollers where your speed will be much faster.  

SUSPENSION: When carrying two or three children, as convertible strollers are designed to do, suspension has a big impact on the overall ride quality. Shocks sit between the wheels and seat, providing a consistently comfortable ride. 

If grassy parks and cobbled streets are your thing, all-wheel suspension will offer you the best performance over bumps. Most manufactures will use either front only or rear only suspension systems. If you’re looking to cover rougher ground, check out our thoughts on all-terrain strollers.

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