Buying a Double Pushchair For Twins Or Two Siblings Close in Age?
Double pushchairs are great for families with twins or children of similar ages. Select from tandem models or side-by-side configurations like the Mountain Buggy Duet V3 which is small enough to fit through standard doors.
Many models also offer recliners that can be laid flat and are compatible with infant car seats. Some can even convert to single mode, like with the egg2 Pushchair that is appreciated for its style and versatility.
Side by Side
The side-by-side buggy is an excellent option for families with twins or siblings of different ages. 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're easy to navigate, and some come with front and rear suspensions to allow for better handling over bumps or over the kerb while turning.
They can cost more than other double buggies however they have a better resale price, especially when they're a well-known brand. They're ideal for jogging and can withstand rough terrain, and the seats offer plenty of space for your kids to relax. Buggies are available in a range of colors and styles to suit your family's tastes.
Certain models come with extra accessories that can help keep your baby in a comfortable position. These may include head cushions, seat supports, and baby blankets. They could also come with pockets to store snacks and toys. Parents can even get a buggy that has a parent console for keeping important items in one place.
This popular buggy's 2023 version features a new design with a larger sun canopy, and fresh logos. It's an attractive option for parents who are conscious of their image and is compatible with iCandy car seats. It's also easy to put together, although Kerry found that it took some time to take all the components out of the boxes. The packaging was well-labeled and smart, so it was easy to identify what each part would be similar to.
It's a little heavier than other double buggies but still relatively light for an inline model. It is also very 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 in only one click.
The UPPAbaby Vista v2 is another top choice for double strollers, and it's ideal for busy parents. It's easy to maneuver and can take on rough terrain. 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 children secure.
Tandem
This clever frame expands in width, allowing the possibility of a second seat being added without the need for compromise in space. It's an excellent choice for twins from birth and can take 2 car seats or carrycots also, making it a fantastic travel system for road trips. It's a little heavier than some of its rivals and could feel long when pushing in double mode but it has a good amount of storage, including a roomy shopping basket. The iCandy Peach is a favourite among parents who are obsessed with their image and has an extremely stylish, sleek design. The main seat can be adjusted to four different positions and will expand with your child's weight up to 25kg. The quick-release Velcro fasteners make it simple to add a seat. This model can also be used in tandem mode, putting one child sitting on 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 on top 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 has padding that allows the seat to recline completely which makes it suitable for infants. Some models have a taller sitting position, with a more upright backrest in the back for older children, and it's typically possible to arrange them to face each other or world facing depending on the design of buggy. It's much easier to maneuver through narrow doors with a tandem pushchair however, it can be difficult to get up kerbs and staircases with two children with you.
double seat stroller is an excellent choice for families with children with special needs. It's a great solution for disabled kids who can benefit from having a younger sibling with whom they can play with and encourage. It's a bit pricey but the sturdy construction is designed to last and has plenty of storage space for everything you'll need. It comes with a range of accessories that let you to personalize the buggy to suit your family, including rain covers and liner.
Lightweight
The most double pushchairs that are lightweight are agile and compact, making them easy to use. They're usually made of a sturdy aluminum frame, and some come with air-filled wheels that allow them to glide over even rough surfaces. They also come with a single-handed fold as well as handy shoulder straps that make them easier to carry. You can also consider adding accessories such as a foot muff, a rain cover or a sunshade.
If you're looking for a light double buggy that has a reasonable price, then the Cybex Mios is worth considering. It's a traveling system that can be used as a lightweight stroller, as well as a fully-functional travel system. A carrycot can be added to allow it to be suitable for use from the time of birth. It features a side-byside design and both seats recline independently providing the ideal position for toddlers and babies. It has a generous UPF 50+ canopy, with peekaboo windows and the toddler seat is cushioned with foot and leg rests that can be adjusted.
UPPAbaby Vista 2 is another top contender. It can carry twins, or a baby and a toddler. It is compatible with many car seats. It has an elegant and sleek frame, with large wheels on the back that can handle rough terrain. It's ideal for running. It's a little long when used in double mode, though there's no storage space underneath the seat.
When comparing double pushchairs, think about the weight of each frame, seat and suspension. The heavier the pushchair is and the heavier it is, the more difficult it will be to push. This is especially the case on uneven surfaces. Then check the folding dimensions and whether or not you can remove the seats, making it smaller. Check for features like a simple one-handed fold, that home tester Kirstie described as "genius", and a convenient strap that you can sling over your shoulders.
You can also opt for a tandem pushchair that places children behind each other. It's not as easy to maneuver as a side-by-side, but it's still a viable option for families with multiple children and could be more suitable for older toddlers. There are also tandems that have reclining seats that allow children to sit up or lie down depending on their mood and requirements.
Confortable
If you're the parent of twins or two kids close in age, having the right double pushchair can make outings a whole lot easier. There are many comfy options on the market. If you're looking to purchase a side-by-side model that can accommodate a seat and carrycot or a tandem model with an interchangeable front and rear seat, there's bound to be a perfect option for your family.
Make sure you choose a seat with various reclining positions, as well as adjustable calfrests. Often, these will be operated with one-handed buttons that are accessible from the back of the seat (though in our labs this could be a little fiddly for parents with small hands). Some of the best double pushchairs also offer an extensive UPF 50+ sun canopy that has magnetic peekaboo windows as well as an incredibly useful hood extension to protect your children from harmful UV radiation.
Convertible Doubles
A great way to save money is to invest in an adjustable pushchair that can change from single to double mode as your children develop. The egg2, as an example, is a chic option that can be used right from birth with the included baby or toddler carriers and even offers a RumbleSeat additional option for older siblings. Its reclining seats and large, comfy carrycots are particularly well-received by test-run testers at home, who love the way it can grow with your family.
On the other side, if you're looking for a low-cost option that will last from birth until toddlerhood, try the iCandy Venus. It includes a seat and footmuff, but it can be combined with the brand's newborn cocoons (available separately at PS59 each) to make it an infant pram that can be used by twins or babies/toddlers. Our labs loved how simple it is to switch between configurations and found the instructions clear and simple - though it can take some practice to master the process of the box.
Some double pushchairs only allow you to sit your children side-by-side. They generally face the world however there are some 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 increase the overall size of the chassis). Kerb popping is usually easier with a tandem but getting through doorways and narrow aisles of shopping can be an issue at times.