Buying a Double Pushchair For Twins Or Two Siblings Close in Age?
Double pushchairs are ideal for families with twins or children of similar age. Pick from side-byside or tandem models such as the Mountain Buggy Duet V3 that's small enough to fit through doors that are standard.
Many models can be used with a baby car seat and have reclined seats. Some can even convert to single mode, like with the egg2 Pushchair that's loved for its design and versatility.
Side by Side
The side-by-side buggy is the classic choice for families with twins or siblings with different ages. These typically offer 2 fixed seats with a single canopy, and are usually larger than an inline buggy, which gives both children the same view. They are easy to maneuver, and some even have front and rear suspensions for better control when traversing kerbs or bumps.
While they can cost more than other types of double buggies but they tend to have a higher resale value when you purchase an established brand. These buggies are also great for jogging, and can take on any terrain. The seats provide plenty of room for your children to sit comfortably. These buggies come in a range of colors and styles to fit your family's tastes.
Certain models come with additional accessories that can help keep your baby snug. These can include baby blankets and seats, liners, and head supports. Some of them may include pockets for storing snacks and toys. Parents can also find a buggy with an adult console to keep essentials handy.
The 2023 version of the popular buggy has an updated look with a larger sun canopy and brand new logos. It's a stylish choice for parents who are conscious of their image and is compatible with iCandy child car seats. It's simple to put together, but Kerry found that it took a while to take the pieces out of their boxes. The packaging was well-labeled and efficient, which made it easier to understand what to expect from each component.
It's heavier than other double buggies but it's still fairly light for an inline model. It is also very versatile and can be used with either one or two infant car seats. It can be transformed from a single seat into a tandem with just one click.
The UPPAbaby vista V2 is a great stokke double stroller stroller that is ideal for parents with busy schedules. It's super maneuverable in tight spaces and can tackle tough terrain easily. It comes with a huge shopping basket, a recline that is independent for both seats, and a cushioned 5-point harness to keep your children safe.
Tandem
The clever frame of this pushchair can be expanded width-wise, allowing you to add a second seat without sacrificing space. This is a great choice for twins since it can be used with two carrycots or car seat. It's also a great travel system for roadtrips. It is a little heavier and longer than some of its competitors, but it has plenty of storage space including a large basket for shopping. The iCandy Peach has a sleek, stylish design that is popular with parents who are conscious of their image. The main seat can be adjusted to four different positions and will grow with your child up to 25kg. The quick-release Velcro fasteners make it simple to add an additional seat. This model can be used in tandem mode, placing one child seated on the top of another. It's a great option if you have sleepy newborns who you don't want disrupt their sleep.
This arrangement places the seats one in front of the other which makes it difficult for toddlers and their parents to get distracted while out and about. This type of pushchair features a padded seat that can recline completely and is suitable for newborns. A lot of models have higher and a more upright seat for older children. Depending on the style it is possible to position them with the intention of facing each other or the world. With a tandem pushchair it's more streamlined to fit through narrow doorways, but it can be difficult to negotiate kerbs and stairs with two children.
A fantastic option for special needs families, this versatile pushchair is a nifty solution for disabled children who benefit from having another child to play with and encourage. It's not cheap, but the sturdy construction is designed to last and has plenty of storage space for all the things you'll require. It comes with a variety of accessories that allow you to customize the twin buggy to suit your family, including rain covers and liner.
Lightweight
The best lightweight double strollers are small, easy to maneuver and agile. Some have air-filled tires to help them glide on rough surfaces. They also come with a one-handed fold and handy shoulder straps to make them easier to carry. Look for additional extras like a sunshade, rain cover, and foot muff.
If you're looking for a light double buggy with a great price tag then the Cybex Mios is worth considering. It is a travel system that can be used as a lightweight stroller as well as a functional travel system. A carrycot can be added to allow it to be suitable for use from the time of birth. It has a side-by-side design and both seats recline independently providing the ideal position for toddlers and babies. It features a large UPF 50+ canopy, peekaboo windows, and a toddler seat that's fully padded and adjustable.
Another top contender is the UPPAbaby Vista 2. It can be used to carry twins or a baby and a toddler, and it is compatible with a range of car seats. It has a sleek and stylish frame with large rear wheels that can withstand rough terrain. It's also suitable for running. The double mode can make it a bit too long, and there's no storage underneath the seat.
When comparing different double pushchairs, think about the weight of each frame, seat and suspension. The heavier the buggy and the heavier it is, the more difficult it will be to push. This is particularly the case on uneven surfaces. Make sure to check the dimensions of the folding, and then see if you can take off the seat to make it more compact. Check for features like a simple one-handed fold, which home tester Kirstie described as "genius" and a useful strap that you can sling over your shoulders.
You can also choose a tandem double stroller, that places the children one behind another. It's not as maneuverable as a side-by-side, however it's still a great option for families with multiple children and could be more suitable for older toddlers. There are also tandems with reclining seats, which allow children to sit up or lie down based on their mood and requirements.
Confortable
A good double pushchair will help you get out more easily, whether you have twins or two kids with similar age. Thankfully, there's a wide selection of comfortable options on the market. If you're looking to purchase a side-by-side model that can accommodate a carrycot and seat or a tandem model with an removable rear and front seat, there's bound to be a suitable option for your family.
Make sure you choose a seat with multiple reclining positions, as well as adjustable calfrests. These are typically operated by a single-handed button accessible from the rear of the seat. (Though in our labs this could be a little fiddly for small-handed parents). Some of the best lightweight double stroller (link) double strollers also come with a huge UPF50+ sun canopy, a magnetic peekaboo windows, and a useful hood extension that shields your child from harmful UV radiation.
Convertible Doubles
One way to save money is to purchase a convertible pushchair that can convert from single mode to double as your children develop. The egg2, for example, is a chic option that can be used from birth using the baby or toddler carriers and also comes with a RumbleSeat second add-on for older siblings. Its reclining seats as well as its spacious, comfy carrycots are particularly appreciated by test-run testers at home, who love the way it can grow with your family.
If you're looking for a budget-friendly option that can last into toddlerhood and beyond, the iCandy Venus is a great choice. It includes a footmuff as well as a seat, but can be transformed into a twin stroller side by side-sized pram using the brand's newborn Cocoons (available at a price of PS59 per piece). Our labs liked the ease of being able to switch between the different configurations. They also found the instruction to be simple and clear however it might require some time.
Some double pushchairs will only allow you to put with your children in a row and generally face the world, but there are exceptions like the Bugaboo Donkey and Mountain Buggy Duet that can be configured to allow both front and parent facing seating (though this can result in an increase in the overall dimensions of the chassis). Kerb popping is generally easier with a tandem but getting through doorways and narrow aisles of shopping can be a challenge at times.