Buying a Double Pushchair For Twins Or Two Siblings Close in Age?
If you have twins or two children that are close in age, a double pushchair gives the flexibility you need for your growing family. Choose from tandem models or side-by-side configurations like the Mountain Buggy Duet V3 which is small enough to fit in standard doors.
Many models are compatible with infant car seats and include reclined seats. Some models can even be converted to single mode, such as with the egg2 Pushchair which is loved for its design and versatility.
Side by Side
Side-by-side is the classic choice for families with twins, or siblings of different age. They typically have two fixed seats and one canopy. They're also wider than inline buggys to let both children see the same thing. They're easy to maneuver, and some have front and rear suspension for better handling over bumps or over kerbs when turning.
They may cost more than other double buggies, but they offer a higher resale price, especially when they're a popular brand. They're also great for jogging, and can handle rough terrain. The seats offer plenty of space for your children to comfortably sit. Buggies are available in a range of colors and styles to fit your family's tastes.
Some models come with additional accessories that can help keep your baby comfortable. These can include baby blankets and seats, liners, and head supports. They might also have pockets for storing snacks and toys. Parents can get a buggy that has a console that keeps things close to hand.
The 2023 version of the popular buggy features a fresh design and a larger sun canopy, and new logos. It's a chic option for parents who are conscious of their image and is compatible with iCandy child car seats. It's easy to put together although Kerry discovered that it took a while to take the components out of their boxes. The packaging was well-labeled and efficient, which made it easier to determine what you can expect out of each part.
It's heavier than other double buggies, however, it's still light for an inline model. It's also extremely versatile, and can be used with one or two infant car seats. It can be converted from a single car seat to an entire tandem double stroller in only one click.
The UPPAbaby Vista v2 is another top pick for double pram and pushchair strollers, and it's perfect for busy parents. It's easy to maneuver and is able to handle rough terrain. It comes with a large basket, a recline that is independent on both seats, and a five-point padded harness to keep your children safe.
Tandem
This innovative frame can be expanded in size, allowing a second seat to be added without taking up space. It's a great option for twins who are born, and will take two car seats or carrycots also, making it a fantastic travel system for road trips. It's a bit heavier than its rivals and could feel long when pushing in double mode, but it has a good amount of storage, including a large shopping basket. The iCandy Peach is a favourite for parents who are conscious of their image and has an incredibly stylish, sleek design. Its main seat can be adjusted into four different positions, and it will grow with your child up to 25kg. The quick-release Velcro fastenings make it easy to add an additional seat. This model can be used in tandem double buggy mode, placing one child seated on the top of another. This is an excellent option for parents who want to keep from disturbing your sleepy newborn.
This arrangement places the seats one in front of another, making it harder for toddlers and their parents to be distracted while out and out and about. This type of pushchair has an upholstered seat that can fully recline which makes it suitable for newborns. Many models have higher and a more upright seat for children who are older. In accordance with the model it's possible to set them up facing each other or to the world. It's much easier to maneuver through narrow doors with a tandem pushchair, however, it can be difficult to navigate kerbs or stairs with two kids in tow.
This multi-purpose pushchair is a great choice for families with special needs children. It's an excellent option for children with disabilities who could 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 space for all your needs. It comes with a range of accessories that enable you to customize the buggy according to the needs of your family like rain covers or liners.
Lightweight
The best lightweight double strollers are small, easy to maneuver and nimble. Some come with air-filled tires that help them glide on rough surfaces. Some models feature one-handed folds and shoulder straps that make them much easier to carry. Look for additional extras like a sunshade rain cover and foot muff.
The Cybex Mios is a lightweight double stroller with an affordable price. It's a travel system that can be used as a lightweight stroller and also a fully-functioning travel system. A carrycot can be added to allow it to be suitable for use from the age of. It has a side-by-side design and both seats recline independently making it a perfect position for toddlers and infants. It features a spacious UPF 50+ canopy with windows that peek out and the toddler seat is cushioned and has adjustable leg and foot rests.
Another popular option is the UPPAbaby Vista 2. It can be used to carry twins, or a baby and a toddler, and is compatible with a range of car seats. It features an elegant and stylish frame with large back wheels to cope with rough terrain, and it's also suitable for running. The double mode can make it a bit too long, and there is no storage beneath the seat.
When comparing double pushchairs, be aware of the weight of each seat, as well as the frame and suspension. The heavier the pushchair, the harder it'll be to push, especially over uneven surfaces. Make sure to check the dimensions of the folding, and see if it's possible to remove the seat to make it more compact. Look for features such as a simple one-handed fold, that home tester Kirstie described as "genius" and a useful strap to sling over your shoulders.
Alternatively, you can choose a tandem double pushchair, which sits children one behind the other. It's not as maneuverable as a side-by-side, however it's still a good option for many families, and may be more suitable for older toddlers. There are also tandems with reclining seats that allow children to lie down or sit down depending on their mood and needs.
Confortable
A good double pushchair will make your outings easier no matter if you have twins or two children with similar ages. There's a great variety of comfortable choices on the market. If you're looking for a side-byside model that can accommodate a carrycot and seat or a tandem that has an interchangeable front and rear seat, there's bound to be a suitable option for your family.
In addition to buckles, straps with padding and headrests, you should look for seats with multiple reclining positions and adjustable calf rests. These are often controlled by one-handed buttons located at the rear of the seat. (Though in our tests, it can be fiddly for small-handed parents). Some of the best Lightweight double stroller double strollers double also come with a huge UPF50+ sun canopy, magnetic peekaboo window and a handy hood extension to shield your child from harmful UV radiation.
Convertible Doubles
A great way to save money is to buy an adjustable pushchair that can change from single mode to double mode as your children develop. The egg2, for example, is a fashionable option that can be used right from birth using the baby or toddler carrier and even offers the RumbleSeat as an additional feature for older siblings. Its reclining seats and spacious, comfy carrycots are particularly well-received by home testers, who appreciate how it will grow with your family.
On the other side, if you're looking for a budget-friendly option that will last from birth to toddlerhood, check out the iCandy Venus. It comes with a footmuff and seat, but can be transformed into a twin-sized pram using the brand's newborn Cocoons (available at a price of PS59 per piece). Our labs loved how simple it is to switch between configurations and found the instructions clear and straightforward - although it can take some practice to get it all out of the box.
Some double pushchairs permit you to seat your children side by side and are generally oriented towards the world. However, there are a few notable exceptions like the Bugaboo Donkey or Mountain Buggy Duet that can be set up both for front and parent facing (though this will increase overall width of the chassis). Tandems are generally more maneuverable around kerbs, but can be difficult to navigate through narrow aisles and doorways.