Bugaboo Donkey Review
Trying to figure out if the Bugaboo Donkey 5 if the right stroller for you and your baby?
Then let us help you decide with our in-depth Bugaboo Donkey review.
If you’re looking for an adaptable twin-figuration stroller then you might have considered the Bugaboo Donkey. The Donkey 5 is the latest in the range from Bugaboo, designed to build on the excellent reputation of the Donkey 3.
The twin stroller puts children side by side, and not stacked front to back like a tandem stroller. Although this has many benefits for parents and children, it does make getting through doors difficult! And the heavy configuration can often be difficult to maneuver.
So, how does the Bugaboo Donkey stroller perform? In this guide, we’ll take a look at the features and functions of the Donkey stroller so you can easily decide if this is the right stroller for you and your family.
And if you love this review on Bugaboo Butterfly, then you’ll love these guides on Bugaboo Butterfly vs Donkey, Bugaboo Donkey Vs Lynx, Bugaboo Donkey Vs Bee, and Bugaboo Donkey Vs Uppababy Vista.
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Bugaboo Donkey 5 Overview
The Bugaboo Donkey is a double stroller which uses the twin configuration to keep your children closer than ever. The Donkey is an adaptable stroller, able to move from single seat to double, and back again.
The Bugaboo Donkey is a side-by-side stroller that can convert from single seat to double seat with just three clicks. The conversion system is super simple, and allows parents to really make the most of the stroller.
Another area of adaptability is the seat configuration. The Donkey can have seats facing forwards, backwards, or one of each.
Bassinet seats can sit next to toddler seats, and there’s even an expansion if you’re expecting twins. Only have one child with you that day? Switch a seat for an extra storage basket.
The Donkey is a large stroller, which is expected with a double stroller. While it isn’t as large as some twin strollers, it certainly isn’t a compact build. Expect the occasional doorway to cause issues.
Despite the size, the Donkey has a surprisingly easy fold that relies on gravity to do most of the work. The stroller overall is very natural and intuitive to use. For parents of two, or parents looking to expand, Bugaboo Donkey has some fabulous features.
Pros
- Available in three different configurations
- Narrow enough to fit through most doorways
- Excellent suspension
- Capacious under seat storage
- Seats can be arranged facing the same way or in opposite directions
- Sturdy and durable
Cons
- Large and Cumbersome
- Doesn’t easily fit in the boot of a car
- Carry cot may be too big for some
What We Like About The Bugaboo Donkey 5
The Bugaboo Donkey 5 has a high price tag, and a good reputation based on earlier iterations of the model. But what are the positives of the Bugaboo Donkey 5 stroller?
Multiple Options
The Bugaboo Donkey 5 is a stroller that can be changed and adapted to meet your needs. The Mono option works best for parents with older toddlers, who are thinking about expanding the family.
The Duo is better for children that are close in age. While the Twin is, unsurprisingly, best if you’re expecting twins.
But the beauty of the Donkey 5 is its adaptability. As your children grow and age, you can convert the stroller from Mono, to Duo, and back again.
With versatile seating options, you can really design and redesign the Donkey 5 to suit your needs. We love that the Donkey 5 allowed the children’s seats to face each other. It really encourages sibling bonding, particularly in those early newborn/older child stages.
Age Range
The Donkey 5 stroller is suitable for children from birth to 4 years old (approximately). We’re impressed with the age range of the stroller, as it really allows parents to take advantage of the features on offer.
Because the stroller can be used from birth until age 4, you can support your family for longer with the Donkey 5.
Higher, More Comfortable, Seat
Equipped with a higher seat than the standard stroller, the Donkey 5 is a safe and secure way to travel with your children.
The higher seat makes it easier for parents to engage with their child, quickly responding when a problem might occur.
A higher seat also allows the toddler to observe and engage with the world around them better.
And it’s easier to reach into the underseat storage, which was an issue with earlier models of the Donkey!
The seat itself is designed for comfort, with improved shoulder pads adding support where needed. The included aerated mattress is breathable and temperature regulated, reducing fussiness.
Overall, the seating options for the Donkey 5 are comfortable, whether an upright seat or breathable bassinet.
Harness
A quick-click 5-point safety harness is used to keep your little one secure in the Bugaboo Donkey 5.
Convenient padding prevents the harness from causing any discomfort, while the quick-click mechanism ensures you can always respond to your child’s needs.
Wheels
The Donkey 5 looks like a sleek city stroller, but it performs like an all terrain stroller. The four-foam filled wheels perform well on all kinds of surfaces, and never go flat.
Puncture-proof, you can explore the outdoors with the Donkey 5, while still delivering a smooth ride for your little one.
Easy Conversion
Changing the Donkey 5 from Mono to Duo and back again takes moments, and the three click system is incredibly easy to use.
If you have one child in preschool and one at home, you can use Duo mode for drop-offs, Mono for shopping, and switch back to Duo when it’s time to pick up.
Folding the Donkey 5 is also relatively easy, and this is a feature that’s been improved for this latest model.
The fold buttons have been moved to the front of the stroller, and even if the entire fold isn’t completely effortless, it’s still comfortable enough to achieve.
However, there is one big issue, and we mean that literally. When folded, the Donkey 5 is still sizable, You’d have to actually take the stroller apart to reduce the size.
Sun Canopy And Breathable Bassinet
Each Donkey 5 seat includes an integrated sun canopy, which can be quickly maneuvered to protect your little one.
The sun canopy includes a small window, which improves the ventilation while also creating a viewing space. Parents can look in, and kids are able to look out.
Adjustable Handlebar
The Bugaboo Donkey 5 comes with an adjustable handlebar that can be maneuvered up and down depending on your height and comfort level.
The lowest handlebar position is at 33.5 inches, while the maximum height is 41.7 inches.
The handlebar also comes with a faux-leather covering, comfortable to hold and easy to grip. With your hands on the bar, the stroller can be pushed and controlled, and the movement feels natural.
Impressive Underseat Storage
The upside to having a large stroller is that an incredible amount of storage space becomes available. The underseat basket can hold up to 22 lbs, and it’s easily accessible when on the go.
The flexible opening does make it easy to lift out essentials in an emergency, but in some cases it’s a little too open. Be careful when stacking items in the basket, or you might find things break free.
The Donkey 5 also comes with a handy pocket, which has enough space to store keys, phone, and wallet.
What We Don’t Like About The Bugaboo Donkey 5
While we like a lot of the features included with the Bugaboo Donkey 5, there are some flaws. Let’s take a look at the parts of the Donkey 5 we aren’t so keen on.
Weight
The Bugaboo Donkey 5 is a heavy stroller, even without children occupying the seats, especially when compared to other Bugaboo strollers like the Butterfly that only weighs 16.09 lbs.
In Mono configuration, when the stroller is at its lightest, it still weighs 26.9 lbs. Adapted to Duo or Twin, and the stroller is 32.8 lbs.
Add in two children, and whatever you want to keep in the underseat storage, and this is a heavy item.
Folded Size
We touched on this above, but the stroller is still pretty big even when folded. If you have limited room in your home, you might struggle to find a place to store the Donkey 5.
Fitting the Donkey 5 in a trunk is also likely to cause some problems. For large cars, it might be possible to get the stroller in the trunk folded and with the seats still attached.
For smaller cars, you will need to start removing sections of the stroller. Even then, you might find it’s a tight squeeze.
Not Suitable For All Doors
It’s the frustrating reality of twin strollers: there are some doorways you just can’t get through.
The Donkey 5 is built without excess bulk, so it should slip through most doorways. However, expect to come across the occasional space where the Donkey 5 just won’t go.
The Donkey 5 is larger than twin strollers that are designed specifically to be compact. Perhaps not massively so, but an inch can make all the difference when you’re trying to squeeze through a door.
High Price
The Bugaboo Donkey 5 is a premium stroller, and that’s reflected in the materials, but also in the price.
In some areas, such as the easy conversion, the price feels justified. However, the large price tag will be a stumbling block for many parents.
Final Thoughts on Bugaboo Donkey Stroller Review
The Bugaboo Donkey 5 is a high quality stroller, all terrain stroller perfect for multiple children.
Whilst it is heavier and more expensive than other Bugaboo strollers, it’s the adaptability of the Donkey 5 that really is its strongest point, and the reason this is a stroller we highly recommend.
And if you loved this guide, then make sure to check out these guides on best convertible strollers, best double strollers, best all terrain double strollers, and best sit and stand strollers.
