The Secret Secrets Of Double Pushchair
Buying a Double Pushchair For Twins Or Two Siblings Close in Age?
If you're expecting twins or two kids close in age, a double pushchair will give you the flexibility you need for your growing family. Select from side-by-side or tandem models like the Mountain Buggy Duet V3 that's small enough to fit through standard doors.
Many models are compatible with an infant car seats and come with reclining seats. Some can even convert to single mode, like with the egg2 Pushchair that's loved for its design and versatility.
Side by Side
The side-by-side buggy is a popular option for families with twins, or siblings of different ages. These typically offer 2 fixed seats with a single canopy and are generally wider than an inline buggy to allow each child the same view. They're easy to move, and some even have front and rear suspensions to allow to provide better control over bumps or over kerbs when turning.
They can cost more than other double Buggy Travel system buggies but they offer a higher selling price, particularly if they are a popular brand. They're also ideal for jogging and can withstand rough terrain, while the seats provide plenty of space for your children to relax. Buggies are available in a range of colors and styles to fit your family's preferences.
Certain models come with additional accessories that can help keep your baby snug. These accessories can include head cushions, seat supports, and baby blankets. Some might have pockets to store toys and snacks. Parents can also find a buggy with an adult console to keep essentials handy.
The 2023 version of the popular buggy features a fresh design and a larger sun canopy, and new logos. It's a stylish choice for parents who value their image and is compatible with iCandy child car seats. It's easy to assemble although Kerry found that it took a while to take the components out of their boxes. However, the packaging was clever and well-labeled making it easier to know what to expect from each piece.
It's a little heavier than other double tandem pushchair buggies but still quite light for an inline-model. It is also very versatile and can be used with either one or two infant car seats. It can even switch from a single seat to tandem with just one click and is a huge advantage for families with growing children.
The Vista v2 from UPPAbaby is another top choice for double strollers, and it's ideal for parents who are busy. It's extremely easy to maneuver in tight spaces and can tackle the tough terrain with ease. It comes with a huge shopping basket, a recline that is independent for both seats, and a cushioned 5-point harness to keep your kids secure.
Tandem
This innovative frame can be expanded in width, allowing a second seat to be added without the need for compromise in space. This is a great option for twins as it can fit two carrycots or a car seat. It's also a great option for road trips. It is a little larger and heavier than some of its competitors, but it provides plenty of storage space, including a large basket for shopping. The iCandy Peach is a favourite among image-conscious parents and boasts an incredibly stylish, sleek design. Its reclining main seat also moves into four different positions, and will grow with your children up to 25kg. The quick-release Velcro fastenings make it easy to add a second hand double buggy seat. This model can be used in tandem mode, putting one child on the other. It's an excellent option when you have a newborn that you don't want to disrupt their sleep.
This configuration places the seats one on top of the other which makes it more difficult for toddlers and their parents to be distracted while out and about. This type of pushchair typically features a padded seat that can recline fully and is ideal for babies. A lot of models have a taller sitting position, with a more upright backrest in the back for older children. It's usually possible to set the seats to be oriented so that they are facing one another or to face the world, depending on the style of the buggy. With a tandem twin pushchair from birth, it's easier to fit through narrow doorways, but it may be difficult to navigate stairs and kerbs with two children.
This multi-functional pushchair is a great choice for families with children with special needs. It's an excellent option for disabled kids who can benefit from having a younger sibling with whom they can play with and encourage. It's expensive, but the solid construction is made to last, and there's plenty of storage space for all the things you'll require. It comes with a range of accessories that allow you to customize the buggy for your family, including rain covers and liner.
Lightweight
The most lightweight double strollers are small easy to maneuver and nimble. They're typically constructed of a sturdy aluminum frame, and some have air-filled wheels that allow them to move over rough surfaces. They also come with a single-handed fold as well as handy shoulder straps that make them easier to carry. You can also look for other accessories like a sunshade rain cover, and foot muff.
The Cybex Mios is a lightweight double stroller that comes at low cost. It is a travel system that can be used as a lightweight stroller, as well as a fully-functional travel system. A carrycot can be added to allow it to be suitable for use from birth. It is the side-by-side design, and the two seats recline independently. This offers the perfect positioning for babies and young toddlers. It features a large UPF 50+ canopy, peekaboo windows and a toddler seat that is fully cushioned and adjustable.
Another top contender is the UPPAbaby Vista 2. It can be used to carry twins or a baby and a toddler, and is compatible with a variety of car seats. It's an elegant and sleek frame that has large wheels at the back to handle rough terrain. It's ideal for jogging. The double mode makes it a bit long, and there is no storage underneath the seat.
When comparing double pushchairs be aware of the weight of each seat as well as the frame and suspension. The heavier the pushchair is and the heavier it is, the more difficult it will be to push. This is particularly the case on uneven surfaces. Be sure to look at the dimensions of the folding and then see if you can take off the seat to make it smaller. Look for features like a one-handed folding mechanism, which Kirstie was a home-based tester at the time, described as "genius" or a strap you can sling over your shoulder.
Alternatively, you can choose a tandem double pushchair, which sits children in a row behind one another. It's not as maneuverable as a side-by-side, but it's still a good alternative for families of all sizes and could be more suitable for older toddlers. Some tandems have reclining seats that let children lie down or recline depending on their mood.
Comfortable
A good double pushchair will simplify your travels regardless of whether you have twins or two kids with similar ages. There are a variety of options for comfortable ones on the market. If you're looking for an side-by-side model that will accommodate a carrycot and seat or a tandem model with an adjustable rear and front seat, there's bound to be a perfect option for your family.
In addition to buckles, straps, padded straps and headrests, you should look for seats with multiple recline positions and adjustable Calf rests. They are usually controlled by single-handed buttons that are accessible from the rear of the seat. (Though in our testing it can be fiddly for small-handed parents). Some of the best double pushchairs also come with an enormous UPF 50+ sun canopy with magnetic peekaboo windows as well as an incredibly useful hood extension to protect your children from harmful UV radiation.
Convertible Doubles
You can save money by purchasing an infant stroller that can be converted from single to dual mode as your child grows. The egg2, for example is a fashionable option that can be used with the toddler seat that comes with it or a baby carrier right from birth. It can even include a second RumbleSeat for older siblings. The reclining seats as well as the spacious carrycots were particularly well received by the home testers who adored the possibility of it growing with your family.
If you're looking for a low-cost option that will last through toddlerhood and beyond the iCandy Venus is a great option. It includes a seat and footmuff but can be combined with the brand's newborn cocoons (available separately for a price of just PS59) to transform it into a twin buggy pram that is suitable for twins or toddlers. Our labs loved how easy it is to change between configurations and found the instructions clear and simple - though it can take some practice to master it out of the box.
Some double pushchairs allow you to sit your children side-by-side and are typically world facing, but there are exceptions, such as the Bugaboo Donkey and Mountain Buggy Duet which can be configured to allow both front and parent facing seating (though this will increase the overall size of the chassis). Kerb popping is generally simpler with a tandem, however the narrow doorways and aisles for shopping can be a challenge at times.