9 Things Your Parents Taught You About Twin Pushchairs
Buying a Twin Pushchair
It is important to think about the different configurations when you are looking for a double pushchair. The most popular options are twin double buggies and side-by-side double buggies.
The iCandy Strawberry Twin buggy is the most popular among parents and will grow along with your family. It is a single buggy that can be converted into double by adding two carrycots or car seats.
Easy to Manoeuvre
A double pushchair can be lifesaving for families with twins or a baby and toddler. Double buggys, also known as twin prams as they're sometimes referred to, are available in a variety to fit all kinds of families. Some are side-by-side, whereas others have a front and other back for narrow spaces. Some can be converted to single prams for newborns when your children have outgrown them. This is a great choice for families with growing children.
Side-by-side twin buggies (or tandem twin buggies) are easy to steer because their front wheels can often be locked in place for added stability, and there is generally more storage space behind them. They are also smaller than other twin buggies, and easier to maneuver through doorways and on public transport. They are generally lighter than other twin prams, so can be more compact too, although you might be unable to maneuver them to and from kerbs, or on uneven terrain.
If you're looking for a more streamlined twin pushchair, the iCandy Peach is a stylish choice that's available in a variety of colors. It's also a great twin stroller compact for newborns and babies due to the cozy newborn cocoons which make a comfortable, flat-floored space. It has a small storage basket, but it has impressive suspension so that it can take on bumpy surfaces.
A lot of twin buggies can be used as travel systems, meaning they have car seats that can be attached to the frame. This can be useful for traveling with babies and toddlers since you don't have to move them from the car to the pushchair which could disturb them. The UPPAbaby Vista 2 is an example of twin pushchairs that can be used as a travel system and it even comes with a handy parent facing pushchair-facing mode for newborns.
Tandem twin buggies are made for children with similar ages. They are more likely to have a separate seat for each child. They are less likely to include carrycots for infants younger than six months old and tend to be larger than single buggies. They are still able to be moved, however they are often equipped with an independent seat recline to allow both children to sit up or be reclined to snooze.
Easy to fold
If you're buying a double pushchair, you'll likely want it to be simple to fold. This makes it easier for you to transport the buggy from one location to another and will also allow you to store it in a smaller space. You can choose from several ways to fold your pushchair. Some models come with a strap for the shoulder that makes it easier to carry.
Most twin pushchairs can fold with one hand, but it is important to confirm before you buy that yours will be able to do this. Some of the best prams models can be folded with the seat removed, which makes them smaller. This can be particularly helpful if you are short on storage space.
Another thing to watch out for is whether your twin pushchair will be suitable for use through doors that are standard. The larger width of tandem buggies can be a problem and it's a good idea to measure the door's width before you purchase. If this is a problem there are smaller models available that are designed to be easier to pass through doors.
UPPAbaby Vista won our lab tests for its compactness and its ability to fold when not in use. It can carry two infant car seats as well as two toddler seats, making it a good option for growing families. It has a huge storage basket, as well as rubber tires with foam fillings that will not flatten.
It's more affordable than the other models we've tested and is a great choice for twins or babies of similar age. It can be used as a comfortable seat unit or a carrycot, and can accommodate three children by the addition of UPPAbaby’s PiggyBack Board (sold separately).
Chicco Cortina together is a fantastic option for two strollers that are affordable. It can accommodate two Chicco infant car seat and is therefore suitable for twins. It has a large storage basket, a simple to use handlebar, and brakes.
Easy to store
It's important to be aware that not all double buggies need to be large, bulky and difficult-to-store. There are a variety of models that are designed so they are small and manageable. This can help them be smaller in size and make it easier to get into and out of the vehicle.
Some twin pushchairs are light, making them a breeze to transport and use with busses, trains and shopping aisles. The UPPAbaby Vista 2 comes to your mind because of its light frame that can handle rough terrain and four-wheel suspension. With the addition of a "piggyback board," it can carry twins or a toddler and a baby.
It is worth checking whether the storage space is accessible even when both seats are in use. Some side-byside configurations can be tricky and the "one above style of tandem could make access difficult due to child's legs. Find large baskets, pockets, and compartments for everything from sun cream and rain covers to snacks and toys.
Consider the add-ons that are available. Some twin pushchairs come with an array of accessories that can be useful including drink holders for your young ones to snack tray for older children. It's a good idea to look for a model that has these features as well as a built-in sun canopy as well as a rain cover and hood to keep your little children safe.
Many twin pushchairs can be converted into a travel system for families that are growing, with the option of adding a carrycot, buggy seats and car seat. This is especially beneficial for toddlers and newborns, as it ensures that they're safe, comfy and ready for every adventure. The egg2 is a favorite for this, due to its sleek styling and flexibility, though it's a bit heavier than some rivals.
If you're on a tight budget, there are several great alternatives for less than PS200. The iCandy Pegasus 2 with its large basket and storage that is easy to access across all seating positions is a great alternative. It also comes with a cushioned leg support and a rain cover.
Easy to transport
If you intend to utilize your twin buggy a lot for long-distance outings with your family or trips around town then it's worthwhile to invest in a model that folds down to a size that is small enough to be able to be carried in a car boot or in the trunk of a hired car. A slim and manageable design can also help you navigate narrow aisles and doors on public transportation.
There are models that can be folded with seats removed to make more compact storage. These are best used at home. You'll want to consider the weight of the buggy as well heavier double buggies are likely to be more difficult to maneuver and might struggle to navigate up or down kerbs.
Most twin pushchairs are fixed side-byside designs, and some can be able to accommodate two carrycots or seat units (and sometimes a third). Some twin pushchairs are suitable for single children with a gap of less than 2 years or by siblings. The enthralling Bugaboo Donkey 5 Duo is an excellent example and features seats that can be reversible, letting children face each other or with you and various other configurations suitable from birth to toddlerhood.
It's easier to take and get off the bus, train or tram using a twin pushchair. It's great for towns and cities with many people, busy streets, or shopping centers.
If you're seeking an oversized twin pushchair that will allow you to take off and onto public transport with ease We recommend a model such as the UPPAbaby Vista 2 - a sleek and stylish city buggy that is able to be used with two infants in the stroller newborn cocoons that come with it or with one baby and an older child, thanks to its clever'sidepack' (available separately for PS45). The second seat is attached to the frame from the back and be positioned to face either direction. You can even add a piggyback board (also available separately for a price of PS120) to take three kids for longer trips.