20 Things That Only The Most Devoted Tandem Double Buggy Fans Are Aware Of
Buying a Tandem Double Buggy
A tandem double buggy can be a fantastic option when you have twins or children who are very close in age. They're narrower than side-by-side buggies, and ideal for maneuvering tight spaces, such as doorways, on public transport and rocky terrain.
Some are able to be converted into travel systems that use two carrycots or child car seats. They can be heavier, longer and less stable than a single pushchair.
Convertible
If you're looking for a convertible stroller that converts from single to double or to add another seat to an existing one, there are a variety of options available. The Vista V2 from UPPAbaby is big, beautiful stroller that easily converts from a single model to a double by incorporating the rumble seat (available separately). It is more expensive and less maneuverable since the second seat is placed on top of the first seat. Nuna Demi Grow is a similar model however, it doesn't have storage under the seat when used as a double stroller.
Other options include twin buggies that have all-terrain wheels as well as joggers that have fixed wheels that can accommodate two children. They are generally more expensive but they're designed for long-distance trips over rough terrain and can have a higher resale value.
Reclining the seat independently
If you want a double stroller that will accommodate children of different age groups, you'll require one with an independent recliner for both seats. This will allow your older child to relax in the back while the baby sleeps in the bassinet and vice versa.
You'll also need to consider the width of the pushchair as this will affect how easy it is to navigate through doors and on public transportation. If your doorways are very narrow, you may be considering a side by side pushchair, such as the Mountain Buggy Duet. It has a footprint similar to a single stroller, but can still accommodate two seats and car seat adaptors.
Tandem buggies are typically longer than side by side models, and therefore are more difficult to maneuver up and down kerbs. However, they can accommodate more combinations of seats/carrycots/car seats and are a great option for twins and siblings of various age groups. They are priced higher than single buggies to double, but they're worth it if you intend on keeping it for many years. They also hold some value if sold when your children have outgrown the buggie.
Another crucial thing to look for is if the seat backs are able to recline independently of one another since this will allow you to put your child in the ideal position for naps or watching. This is crucial if your child is in the back seat and wishes to take a nap while the older child prefers to sit and observe the surrounding.
strollers double strollers have a unique design for their seats that allows the back seat to fully recline to an almost flat position which is perfect for infants. For example, the iCandy Orange has raised stadium-style seating and can recline both the toddler seat that comes with it and the add-on RumbleSeat into various positions to give your kids a the option of deciding where to sit as well as offering an excellent UPF 50+ canopy with peekaboo windows.
More spacious than twin buggies
They are great for siblings of different ages, and you can get around without having to worry about your children touching. They're typically a little larger with one seat positioned behind the other, and typically with a fully-flat recline option for newborns (or an upright position for toddlers).
A popular choice is the Mountain Buggy Duet, which features the slimmest side-by-side design on the market and has an identical footprint to a single buggy. It also features an adjustable handle, making it easy for parents of different heights to push as well as an adjustable handbrake, which is helpful when climbing difficult terrains. It is suitable from birth and is compatible with a range of car seats and carrycots. This means it makes an excellent travel system.
The iCandy Wave is another option. It can be folded in mono or duo mode with just a single click. The clever frame expands to accommodate an additional chair and can be used to accommodate up to two car seats or carrycots. This makes it a great option for older siblings who wish to be seated together. It's a bit longer than other models but still feels light to steer and has soft suspension to tackle the kerbs.
There are many 3-wheeler tandems with inline wheels that provide stability and fast steering. Check out Phil and Teds inline models or iCandy Peach and Pear buggies. They are often folded into the size of a single buggy which is useful for those who struggle with storage at home or have to carry it in and out of the boot when using public transportation.
It's worth bearing in mind that a large double buggy will feel heavier and bulkier than a single buggy that is smaller Make sure that you're getting what you need before you purchase. It will be used on trains, buses, and subways frequently so it must be easy to use and manage. You might also have to juggle it onto and off the car seat when taking your children to nursery or school so you'll need to know it is able to be maneuvered in small spaces.
From birth, you are an ideal candidate
Whether you're expecting twins or you have a child following your first, you're likely need to find a stroller that can accommodate the whole family. Double buggies are generally heavier, bulkier, and more expensive than single strollers. However they are also more maneuverable in tighter doors, or around obstacles like curbs. Many double buggies work with piggyback boards (available from the manufacturer or as an add-on). This lets you transport three children at the same time.
Tandem pushchairs put one child in the front of the other, so they're often a better choice when you have two children that are close enough in age to get along well together. However, they're not 100% secure: Siblings in side-by-side seats may punch or kick each other, and kids with different heights may argue over who gets to sit higher. This issue can be addressed by a tandem high-low model that elevates the seat at the rear. Your child's older will not be sitting at the lowest part of the car and won't get much of a look out.
The iCandy Wave is a good alternative for parents looking for a convertible double buggy that includes a carrycot that is able to accommodate both infants and an older child. It features a smart frame that expands in width when you add the second seat, and folds flat to make it a compact storage. The seats are cushioned and comfortable, the straps easy to fasten, and the buckles some of the most impressive we've seen in any of our tests. The canopies have a generous size, UPF 50+ protection, and a windows that peek out. Both seats can recline independently.
The only downside to the iCandy tandem is that it's a bit expensive. However, a quality tandem will last for years and retain a high resale price, so in the end, you'll likely recoup a portion of the cost. It also doesn't offer the same variety of seating options as some of our other top choices however the iCandy is a great choice for families who don't wish to shell out a lot of money.