Buying a Tandem Double Buggy
A tandem double buggy can be a fantastic option for twins or children who are very close in age. They're a bit smaller than side-byside buggies and are ideal for maneuvering tight spaces, such as doors, on public transport and rocky terrain.
Some are able to be converted into travel systems that use two carrycots or child car seats. They are typically heavier, longer and less stable than a single pushchair.
Convertible
There are many options to add a second seat or making a single stroller double. The UPPAbaby is a large, beautiful stroller. It can be easily transformed from a single stroller to a double by adding a Rumble seat. It is more expensive and less maneuverable since the second seat is placed on top of the first seat. The Nuna Demi Grow is a similar option with great seating flexibility, however it lacks under-seat storage when used in doubles mode.
Other alternatives include twin buggies with all-terrain wheels, and joggers with fixed wheels that can hold two children. They are generally more expensive, however they're designed for long trips over rough terrain and could have greater resales value.
Reclining the seat independently
If you want a double stroller that will accommodate children of different ages, you will need one with independent seat recliner for both seats. This will allow your child's older to rest in the back while the baby sleeps in the bassinet and vice versa.
You'll also have to think about the size of the pushchair, as this will impact how easy it is to get through doors and on public transport. If you have narrow doorways then it might be a good idea to consider a side-byside pushchair like the Mountain Buggy Duet which has the advantage of having a footprint comparable to a single buggy however it can take 2 seats and car seat adaptors.
Tandem buggies generally are smaller than side-byside models and therefore aren't difficult to maneuver up and down kerbs, however, they can accommodate a wider range of car seat/car seat combinations, so can be a good option for twins or siblings of different age groups. They are also more expensive than single-to-double stroller with bassinet buggies, but are worth the investment if you plan to keep it for years and will retain a decent amount of resale value if you sell it on when your children are out of it.
Another important feature to look for is whether the seat backs are able to recline independently of one another since this will allow you to put your child in the most optimal position to nap or observe. This is essential for children who are in the back seat and would like to take a nap while the more mature child prefers to sit and observe the surroundings.
Some brands feature a unique seat design which allows the back seat to completely recline to an almost flat position which is perfect for babies. For instance the iCandy Orange has raised stadium-style seating that can recline both the toddler seat included as well as the optional RumbleSeat into various positions to give your kids a the option of deciding where they will sit, as well as offering an excellent UPF 50+ canopy that has windows that peek out.
Larger than twin stroller buggies
You don't need to have twins to benefit from a larger double buggy - they're ideal for siblings of various age groups and let you get around without having to worry about your children touching. They're typically a more spacious with one seat positioned behind the other. The seats can be reclined completely for newborns or in an upright position for toddlers.
Mountain Buggy Duet is a popular option. It has the slimmest design that is side-by-side and a footprint comparable to a single stroller. It also has an adjustable handle, making it easy for parents of different heights to push, and an adjustable handbrake, which is useful when tackling difficult hills. It is suitable to use from birth and can be used with a wide range of car seats and carrycots.
The iCandy Wave is another option. It folds in duo or mono mode in a single click. Its innovative frame can be expanded widthwise to allow for a second seat and it can be used with up to two car seats or carrycots so it's an excellent option for older siblings that want to sit in a group and enjoy the view. It's slightly longer than some other models, but it's easy to steer and has soft suspension to tackle the kerbs.
There are also a variety of 3-wheeler inline tandems available such as Phil and Teds inline models, or iCandy's Peach and Pear buggies, for example - which provide stability and swift steering. They are often folded into the size of one buggy which is useful if you struggle with storage at home or need to lug it in and out of the car when using public transport.
It's important to remember that a large double buggy will feel heavier and bulkier than a smaller single buggy, so make sure you're getting what you need before you buy. You'll be taking it off and on subways, trains and buses regularly so it needs to be easy to operate and manage. You might need to manage the car seat in and out when you take your child to school or nursery.
From birth, you are a suitable candidate
You'll need a stroller for the whole family, regardless of whether you're expecting twins or you have another child after you've had your first. double stroller with infant car seat buggies are typically a bit heavier, bulkier and cost more than single strollers, but they can also be easier to maneuver in narrower entrances or around obstacles like curbs. Many double buggies can be used with piggyback boards (available from the manufacturer or as an add-on). This allows you to transport three children simultaneously.
Tandem pushchairs place one child ahead of the other. They're a good option if your children are of similar ages and are good friends. However, they're not 100% secure: Siblings in side-by-side seats may punch or kick each other, and kids who are different heights can argue over who sits higher. A tandem high-low model is able to solve this issue by elevating the seat to the rear, preventing your older child from being on the bottom and not having any view.
The iCandy Wave is a good alternative for parents looking for an adjustable double buggy that can be converted into a carrycot that can fit both a newborn and an older child. It features a smart frame that can be expanded in width when you add the second seat, and folds to flattish storage. The seats are cushioned and comfortable, the straps easy to fasten, and the buckles are among the best we've seen on any of our tests. The canopies have a generous size and 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 costly. But a high-quality tandem will last for years and retain a high resale price, so in the end, you'll likely recoup some of the cost. The iCandy doesn't come with the same seating options as our other top picks. However, it's a good option for families that don't want spend lots of money.