Buying a Double Pushchair For Twins Or Two Siblings Close in Age?
Double pushchairs are great for families with twins or children with similar ages. Choose from tandem models or side-byside configurations such as the Mountain Buggy Duet V3 which is small enough to fit in standard doorways.
Many models also have reclining seats that lay flat and can be used with infant car seats. Some can even convert to single mode, such as with the egg2 Pushchair which is loved for its design and versatility.
Side by Side
Side-by-side strollers are a classic option for families with twins or siblings of different ages. They typically have two fixed seats and a single and double stroller canopy. They're also wider than inline buggys to allow both children to observe the same things. They're easy to navigate, and some come with front and rear suspension to help with handling bumps or over the kerb when turning.
They can be more expensive than other double buggies, but they have a better resale price, especially when they're a well-known brand. These buggies are also great for jogging, and can take on any terrain. The seats offer plenty of space for your kids to relax comfortably. You can find these buggies in a variety of designs and colours to complement your family's style.
Certain models come with extra accessories that can help keep your baby in a comfortable position. They can include baby blankets and liners, seat cushions, and head supports. Some may include pockets to store snacks and toys. Parents can find a buggy that has a console that keeps important items close by.
The 2023 version of this cult buggy has an updated look and a larger sun canopy and fresh logos. It's a chic option for parents who are conscious of their image and is compatible with iCandy car seats. It's also easy to put together but Kerry discovered that it took quite a while to get all of the parts out of the boxes. The packaging was well-labeled and clever making it easy to determine what each component would look similar to.
It's a little heavier than other double buggies, but still quite light for an inline model. It's also extremely versatile, and it can be used with two or more infant car seats. It can be transformed from a single seat to a tandem with only one click.
The UPPAbaby Vista v2 is another top pick for double strollers. It's ideal for busy parents. It's easy to maneuver and can handle rough terrain. It comes with a large basket, an independent recline on both seats, and a 5-point padded harness to keep your children safe.
Tandem
This innovative frame can be expanded in size, allowing the possibility of a second seat being added without compromising space. This is an excellent option for twins as it can accommodate two carrycots or car seat. It's also a great travel system for road trips. It is a little larger and heavier than some of its competitors, but it offers a lot of storage space, including a large shopping basket. The iCandy Peach has a sleek, stylish design that is popular with parents who are a bit glam. Its seat can be adjusted into four different positions, and it will grow with your child up to 25kg. The addition of a second seat is easy thanks to the quick-release Velcro fasteners. This model can be used in tandem mode with one child seated on the top of the other. This is a great option for parents who want to keep from the baby from being disturbed.
This configuration places the seats one in front of another which makes it more difficult for toddlers and their parents to get distracted when they are out and about. This kind of pushchair comes with a padded seat that can recline completely which makes it suitable for newborns. 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 them to face one another or to face the world, depending on the style of the pushchair. It's easier to navigate narrow doors with a tandem pushchair however, it can be difficult to navigate kerbs or stairs with two kids in the back.
This multi-functional pushchair is an excellent choice for families with children with special needs. It's an excellent option for disabled kids who can benefit from having a younger sibling to play with and encourage. It's not inexpensive, but it's constructed to last. There's plenty of storage for all your needs. It comes with a range of accessories to allow you to customize the buggy according to your family's requirements like rain covers or liners.
Lightweight
The best lightweight double stroller with car seat strollers double are compact, easily maneuverable and nimble. They're usually made of a sturdy aluminum frame, but some also have air-filled wheels that allow them to glide over even rough surfaces. They can also have a one-handed fold and handy shoulder straps that make them easier to carry. You can also look for other accessories such as a sunshade, rain cover and foot muff.
The Cybex Mios is a lightweight double stroller that comes at a low price. It is a travel system that can be used as a light stroller as well as a functional travel system. A carrycot can be added to allow it to be suitable for use from birth. It has a side-by-side design and both seats recline independently, offering an ideal positioning for babies and toddlers. It has a generous UPF 50+ canopy with peekaboo windows and the toddler seat is fully cushioned with foot and leg rests that can be adjusted.
UPPAbaby Vista 2 is another top contender. It can be used to carry twins or a baby and a toddler. It is compatible with a variety of car seats. It's an elegant and sleek frame that has large wheels at the back to withstand rough terrain. It's ideal for jogging. The double mode can make it a bit too long, and there's no storage underneath the seat.
When comparing double pushchairs, consider the weight of each seat, frame and suspension. The heavier the buggy and the heavier it is, the more difficult it will be to push. This is especially true on uneven surfaces. Check the dimensions of the folding and whether or not you can remove the seats, which makes it smaller. Check for features such as a one-handed folding system, which Kirstie who was a home tester at the time, described as "genius", or straps that can be slung over your shoulder.
You can also choose a tandem double stroller which places the children one behind another. It's not as easy to maneuver as a side-by-side, but it's still a viable option for many families and could be more suitable for older toddlers. You'll also find some tandems with reclining seats that allow children to sit up or lie down based on their mood and needs.
Comfortable
A good double pushchair will help you get out more easily regardless of whether you have twins or two children with similar age. Thankfully, there's a wide selection of comfortable options on the market. If you're looking to purchase a side-byside model that can accommodate a seat and carrycot or a tandem that has an interchangeable front and rear seat, there's bound to be the perfect choice for your family.
Find seats with several recline positions and adjustable calfrests. They are usually controlled by one-handed buttons located at the rear of the seat. (Though in our testing it can be fiddly for small-handed parents). Some of the best double Buggy travel system strollers also have an enormous UPF50+ sun canopy, a magnetic peekaboo window 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 invest in a convertible pushchair that can be converted from single mode to double as your children develop. The egg2, as an example, is a chic option that can be used from birth using the baby or toddler carriers and also comes with a RumbleSeat additional option for older siblings. Its reclining seats and large, comfy carrycots are particularly well-received by home testers, who appreciate how it can 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 footmuff as well as a seat, but can be transformed into a twin-sized stroller by using the brand's newborn Cocoons (available at PS59 per piece). Our labs loved how easy it was to switch between configurations. They also found the instruction to be clear and straightforward however it might require some time to master.
Some double pushchairs allow you to put your children side-by-side. They are generally oriented towards the world however there are a few exceptions such as the Bugaboo Donkey and Mountain Buggy Duet that can be set up for both front and parent facing seating (though this can result in an increase in the overall size of the chassis). Tandems are generally more maneuverable around kerbs, but can be difficult to navigate through narrow doorways and aisles.