You'll Never Guess This Double Pushchair's Secrets
Buying a Double Pushchair For Twins Or Two Siblings Close in Age?
If you have twins or two children close in age, a double pushchair offers you the flexibility you need to accommodate your growing family. Choose from tandem models or side-by-side configurations like the Mountain Buggy Duet V3 which is small enough to fit standard doorways.
Many models are compatible with infant car seats and include reclining seats. Some even convert to single mode, such as with the egg2 Pushchair that's appreciated for its style and versatility.
Side by Side
Side-by-side strollers are a classic option for families with twins or siblings of various age. They typically have two fixed seats with a single canopy and are usually larger than an inline buggy to allow each child the same view. They are easy to maneuver, and some even have front and back suspensions to help with traversing kerbs or bumps.
While they are more expensive than other double buggies, they are likely to have a higher resale value, especially if you choose an established brand. They're ideal for jogging and can withstand rough terrain, and the seats are spacious enough for your kids to sit comfortably. Buggies are available in a variety of colors and styles to match your family's preferences.
Some models include extra accessories that can help keep your baby snug. These include baby blankets and liners, seat cushions, and head supports. Some may include pockets to store toys and snacks. Parents can even find a buggy with a console for parents to keep essentials handy.
The popular model's 2023 version features a new design and a bigger sun canopy, and fresh logos. It's an attractive option for image-conscious parents and is compatible with iCandy car seats. It's also easy to put together, although Kerry found it did take some time to take all of the parts out of the boxes. The packaging was clever and well-labeled which made it easy to understand what to expect from each component.
It's heavier than other double buggies, but still relatively light for an inline model. It's also extremely versatile and can be used with either one or two infant car seat. It can be transformed from a single seat into a tandem with just a single click.
The UPPAbaby vista v2 is a great double stroller that is ideal for parents with busy schedules. It's extremely easy to maneuver in tight spaces and handles the tough terrain easily. It also comes with a large shopping basket, a recline that is independent for both seats, and a cushioned 5-point harness to keep your kids secure.
Tandem
This clever frame can be expanded in size, allowing a second seat to be added without taking up space. This is a great option for twins as it can fit two car seats or carrycots. It's also a great option for roadtrips. It's a little heavier than some of its rivals and could seem a bit bulky when used in double mode, but it's got plenty of storage, including a large shopping basket. The iCandy Peach has a sleek and stylish design that's popular with parents who are a bit glam. Its seat can be adjusted to four different positions, and it will grow with your child up to 25kg. The quick-release Velcro fasteners allow you to add a seat. This model can be used in tandem mode, with one child seated on the other. This is an excellent option if you want to avoid the baby from being disturbed.
This configuration places the seats one in front of the other which makes it more difficult for toddlers and their parents to be distracted while out and out and about. This type of pushchair features padding that allows the seat to fully recline which makes it suitable for babies. Some models have a taller sitting position, with a more upright backrest in the back for older children, and it's often possible to configure them to be facing one another or face each other depending on the design of buggy. With a tandem pushchair it's easier to squeeze through doorways that are narrow, however it can be a challenge to navigate stairs and kerbs with two children.
A great option for special needs families, this versatile pushchair is a great solution for disabled children who benefit from having a younger sibling to play with and encourage. It's not expensive, but it's made to last. There's plenty of storage for all your requirements. It comes with a range of accessories that let you to personalize the buggy for your family, including rain covers and liner.
Lightweight
The best double pushchairs with a lightweight design are light and compact, making them easy to use. They're usually made of a sturdy aluminium frame, and some have air-filled wheels that help them slide over even rough surfaces. Some models have one-handed folds and shoulder straps, making them easier for you to carry. You could consider adding additional accessories like an ankle muff, a rain cover or a sunshade.
The Cybex Mios is a lightweight double stroller that comes at a low price. It's a traveling system that can be used as a light stroller, as well as a fully-functional travel system. A carrycot can be added to make it suitable for use from birth. It has an aesthetically pleasing side-by-side design with both seats recline separately. This allows for the ideal position for infants and toddlers. It comes with a huge UPF 50+ canopy, peekaboo windows, and an infant seat that is fully padded and adjustable.
UPPAbaby Vista 2 is another top contender. It can be used to carry twins or a baby and toddler. It is compatible with a variety of car seats. It features an elegant and stylish frame with large back wheels that can withstand rough terrain. It's also suitable for running. The double mode makes it a bit too long, and there is no storage beneath the seat.
When comparing double pushchairs consider the weight of each seat, as well as the frame and suspension. The heavier the pushchair is, the more difficult to push, particularly on uneven surfaces. Check the folding dimensions, and if you can remove the seat to make it more compact. Check for features like a simple one-handed fold, that home tester Kirstie described as "genius" and a useful strap to sling over your shoulders.
You can also select a tandem double stroller, that places the children one behind another. It is not as maneuverable however it is an ideal choice for many families. It could be more suitable for older toddlers. Certain tandems come with reclining seats that let children lie down or sit up according to their mood.
Comfortable
A good double pushchair will simplify your travels no matter if you have twins or two children with similar age. Thankfully, there's a wide choice of comfortable options available that are available. If you're looking for a side-by-side model that can accommodate a carrycot and a seat or a tandem that has an adjustable rear and front seat, there's sure to be the perfect choice for your family.
In addition to buckles, straps with padding and headrests, you should look for seats that have multiple recline positions and adjustable the calf rests. Often, these will be controlled via easy-to-use one-handed buttons that are accessible from the back of the seat (though in our labs this could be difficult for parents with small hands). Some of the top double strollers also come with a large UPF50+ sun canopy, a magnetic peekaboo windows and a handy hood extension that protects your child from harmful UV rays.
Convertible Doubles
One of the best ways to save money is to buy a convertible pushchair which can change from single mode to double as your children grow. The egg2, for instance is a chic option that can be used with the toddler seat included or baby carrier from birth and comes with a second RumbleSeat for older siblings. The reclining seats and large carrycots were especially well-loved by the home testers who adored how it could grow with your family.
On the other hand, if you're looking for a budget option that will last from birth until toddlerhood, check out the iCandy Venus. It includes a seat and footmuff, but it can also be used with the brand's newborn cocoons (available separately at PS59 each) to turn it into a twin pram that is suitable for twins or babies/toddlers. best lightweight double stroller liked the ease of use to switch between the different configurations. They also found the instruction to be simple and clear however it could require some time to master.
Some double pushchairs allow you to put your children side-by-side and generally face the world, but there are exceptions like the Bugaboo Donkey and Mountain Buggy Duet which can be configured to have both front and rear facing seating (though this can increase the overall size of the chassis). Kerb popping is usually more straightforward with a tandem, but the narrow doorways and aisles of shopping can be an issue at times.