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If you're a parent or parent-to-be on certain corners of the internet, you've likely spent a lot of time researching and debating which stroller is right for you. Many popular options on the market from brands like Uppababy and Nuna can cost upwards of $1,000, and if you're going to spend that much, you want to make the right investment for your family.
I bought the Uppababy Vista before my first child was born four years ago, which I chose in part due to its ability to convert from one to two seats for multiple kids in the future. While it does work as a double stroller, it isn't exactly ideal now that I actually have two -- the baby has to sit on the bottom part of the stroller, in either the bassinet or the car seat, so the toddler up front totally blocks your view of them.
I started seeing people I follow online upgrading to the Bugaboo Donkey stroller instead, which converts from one to two kids in a side-by-side position, instead of one in front and one in back. When I got the chance to try one out, I jumped at it. And while it's expensive, it's an excellent, durable double stroller option.
If you're considering one, this is a great time to buy: For Black Friday, you can get 20% off the Donkey 5 Mono, Duo, or Twin on Bugaboo's website, or on Amazon.
Also: The best Black Friday deals live now
While the naming is a bit confusing, the Donkey 5 Mono does convert from one to two kids quickly and easily. To go from single to double mode, you unlock three tabs on the stroller, push a button, and pull out the handle to extend the entire stroller and add another seat. I appreciated that the tabs won't lock back into place unless the stroller is fully extended in the right spot.
The Mono comes with a bassinet and a toddler seat, and while they're side by side, with the Mono, they are facing opposite directions (though there is an extension set you can buy so both can sit side-by-side facing out in toddler seats, as is the case in the Duo and the Twin).
When extended, the stroller is large, but it was surprisingly easy to maneuver, and felt similar to the Uppababy Vista. It moved smoothly on pavement and hard floors, and feels extremely sturdy and durable. You can tell that this is a luxury product, and you're getting what you pay for.
Another feature I liked: In single mode, there's a basket that sits next to the bassinet, giving you extra storage that you can grab without bending down to the basket underneath (which is large and convenient to have too, and holds up to 44 lbs). The sun shades also extend all the way down to keep the sun fully off of your baby, which is something I've struggled with using other strollers.
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