January 16, 2018 Christi Townsend

Single-to-double debacle: Bugaboo Donkey2 vs UPPAbaby Vista 2018

Single-to-double stroller debacle: the Bugaboo Donkey2 vs the UPPAbaby Vista 2018

Whether you are expecting again or in desperate need of an updated double stroller, we are here to help by recommending two of the top single-to-double strollers – the UPPABaby Vista and the Bugaboo Donkey2. While vastly different, each stroller is versatile enough to be the perfect companion for your busy everyday life.

The UPPABaby Vista 2018 is fit to accommodate anywhere from one to three children all within your standard tandem formation. As a single stroller, your purchase contains one bassinet and a stroller seat; if you are looking to purchase this as a double, the RumbleSeat can be added for an additional purchase. To hold a third child, the Vista allows for a ride along board, or piggyback board accessory that your child can stand on. If you are looking for a travel system, the UPPAbaby Mesa infant car seat clicks in effortlessly without the need for adapters.

Equipped with a huge storage basket (holds 30 pounds!), you are able to store all your on-the-go accessories and a sizeable diaper bag without any issues. UPPAbaby perfects its strollers by adding foam-filled, shock-absorbing tires with both front and rear suspension. So if you enjoy long walks around town, both you and your child are promised a smooth, effortless ride.

In terms of weight, the Vista’s bassinet holds up to 20 pounds and 25 inches or until your infant can turn over unassisted. Additionally, the main stroller seat permits a child from 3 months while included until 50 pounds. Although the Vista holds a second child, the Rumbleseat is not considered a full stroller seat due to its weight limit of 35 pounds and 36 inches. However, if your children are a few years apart, the Rumbleseat may not be necessary as you can purchase the Piggyback board. Again, the Vista is extremely versatile and can be customized for your personal needs and lifestyle.

Considered a side-by-side double stroller, the Bugaboo Donkey2 allows for mono (single child) mode, twin mode (for children of the same age) and duo mode (one infant, one toddler). The Donkey is a great stroller for families who are planning for more children ahead because of its ability to grow and accommodate multiple children of different ages. Unlike the Vista, your purchase gives you tailored fabric sets, which gives you the option to create your bassinet and stroller seats.

After your infant outgrows the bassinet, you are not left with a physical bassinet, instead you are left with a frame that is then used to form the stroller seat. At 29 inches wide, the Bugaboo Donkey Stroller is created to fit through standard doorways – even as a double configuration! A unique feature with the Donkey is that your purchase comes with a side luggage basket that can be attached when in mono or single mode. Not only does the side basket hold accessories, a purse or a diaper bag, but the under-storage allows for a maximum weight of 28 pounds. Bugaboo does not create their own line of infant car seats, however the Donkey is compatible with many other popular seats such as the Chicco Keyfit 30, Nuna Pipa, and Maxi Cosi line. Similar to the Vista, the Donkey utilizes large foam-filled all terrain rear and front wheels, which is perfect for uneven sidewalks, bike trails, and the beach.

Although these strollers are vastly different, they each embody ease of use, comfort, practicality, and style. An important difference that I have come across while demoing both the Vista and Donkey is that the Bugaboo Donkey’s telescoping handlebar is more comfortable for petite parents and is still able to extend for taller users. That being said, the Donkey is a side-by-side formation and does take up more room for storage, so if you are tight on space or live in an apartment complex, storing the Vista may be more manageable.

If you find yourself needing some hands-on demo time to really decide on your next stroller, our gear experts are here to help. Simply schedule your free consultation, give us a call at (866) 600-2326, or email us at questions@mbeans.com. We’re here to help!

Christi is a Gear Guru at our Wellesley location!