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. Choose from tandem models or side-byside configurations such as the Mountain Buggy Duet V3 which is narrow enough to fit in standard doorways.
Many models can be used with a baby car seats and include reclined seats. Some models can even be converted to single mode, as with the egg2 Pushchair that's appreciated for its style and versatility.
Side by Side
The side-by-side buggy is the most popular choice for families with twins, or siblings of different age. These typically offer 2 fixed seats with a single canopy, and they're usually wider than an inline buggy, which gives both children the same view. They're easy to maneuver, and some have front and rear suspension to provide better control over bumps or over kerbs when turning.
Although they may cost more than other double buggies, they tend to have better resale value particularly if you select an established brand. They're also great for jogging and can withstand rough terrain, while the seats are spacious enough for your children to relax. These buggies come in a variety of colors and styles to match your family's preferences.
Certain models come with extra accessories to help keep your baby comfortable. They can include baby blankets and liners, seat cushions, and head supports. Some may include pockets for storing snacks and toys. Parents can find a buggy that has an area for keeping their essentials close at hand.
The 2023 version of this popular 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 assemble, although Kerry found that it took a long time to get everything out of the boxes. The packaging was well-labeled and clever and made it easy to determine what each part would be similar to.
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 two or one infant car seats. It can be transformed from a single car seat to an entire tandem in just one click.
The UPPAbaby Vista V2 is a great double stroller for parents who are busy. It is easy to maneuver and can cope with rough terrain. It comes with a huge basket, a recline that is independent on both seats, and a five-point strap that is padded to ensure your children's safety.
Tandem
This clever frame expands in width, allowing a second seat to be added without the need for compromise in space. This is a great option for twins, as it can be used with two carrycots or car seat. It's also a great travel system for roadtrips. It's a little heavier than its competitors and can seem a bit bulky when used in double mode, but it's got plenty of storage, including a spacious shopping basket. The iCandy Peach has a sleek and stylish design that's loved by parents who are conscious of their image. Its seat can be repositioned into four different positions, and it will expand with your child's weight up to 25kg. The quick-release Velcro fastenings make it easy to add a seat. This model can also be used in tandem mode, placing one child sitting on the top of another. It's a great choice for sleepy babies who you don't want disturb in their sleep.
The seat is positioned one ahead of the other in this arrangement which makes it harder for toddlers to distract each other while you're out and out and about. This type of pushchair usually features a padded seat that can recline fully and is ideal for babies. A lot of models have a taller and more upright seat in the back for older children, and it's usually possible to set them to be facing each other or world facing depending on the design of the pushchair. With a tandem pushchair it's more streamlined to fit through doorways that are narrow, however it can be a challenge to get around kerbs and stairs with two children.
A fantastic option for special needs families, this versatile pushchair is a nifty solution for children with disabilities who 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 storage space to meet your requirements. It comes with a variety of accessories that let you to customise the buggy to fit your family, such as rain covers and liner.
Lightweight
The best double strollers that are lightweight are compact, easy to maneuver and agile. They're typically constructed of a sturdy aluminum frame, and some have air-filled wheels to help them move over rough surfaces. They may also feature a one-handed fold and handy shoulder straps that make them easier to carry. Consider adding extras like an ankle muff, a rain cover or a sunshade.
The Cybex Mios is a lightweight double stroller that comes at low cost. It straddles two categories as both a full-functioning travel system and a lightweight buggy that can be used from birth with the addition of a carrycot. It has a side-by-side design and the two seats recline independently, providing the ideal position for babies and toddlers. It features a large UPF 50+ canopy, peekaboo windows, and a toddler seat that's fully padded and adjustable.
UPPAbaby Vista 2 is another top contender. It can accommodate twins, or a baby and toddler. It is compatible with a variety of car seats. It's an elegant and sleek frame with large wheels on the back to handle rough terrain. It's ideal for jogging. It's a bit long when used in double mode, though, and there's no storage space 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 buggy is and the heavier it is, the more difficult it will be to push. This is especially true on uneven surfaces. Then check the folding dimensions and whether or not you are able to remove the seats, which makes it more compact. Look for features like an easy one-handed fold which home tester Kirstie described as "genius" and a handy strap that you can sling over your shoulders.
You can also opt for a tandem double pushchair, which places children one behind the other. It's not as agile, but still a great option for many families. It may be better suited for older toddlers. Certain tandems have recliner seats that let children lay down or sit up according to their mood.
Confortable
A double pushchair that is well-designed can simplify your travels, whether you have twins or two kids with similar ages. There's a great choice of comfortable options available on the market. There are many options for families, no matter if you're looking for a side by side model that can accommodate both a carrycot seat and seats, or a tandem with an rear and front seat that can be swapped.
Find seats with several recline positions, as well as adjustable calfrests. Most of the time, they will be operated with single-handed buttons accessible from the back of the seat (though in our labs, this can prove difficult for parents with small hands). Some of the best double pushchairs come with an enormous UPF 50+ sun canopy that has magnetic peekaboo windows as well as a handy hood extender to protect your children from harmful UV rays.
Convertible Doubles
One of the best ways to save money is to buy a convertible pushchair which can change from single to double mode as your children develop. The egg2, for example is a fashionable option that can be used in conjunction with the toddler seat that comes with it or a baby carrier from birth. It can even include a second RumbleSeat for older siblings. The reclining seats and large carrycots were particularly well received by home testers who loved how it could grow with your family.
On the other hand, if you're looking for a budget option that can last from birth until toddlerhood, try the iCandy Venus. It includes a footmuff as well as a seat, but it can also 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 easy it is to switch between different configurations and found the instructions clear and straightforward - although it may take some time to master the process of the box.
Some double pushchairs allow the children to be seated together and are generally oriented towards the world. However there are some notable exceptions like the Bugaboo Donkey or Mountain Buggy Duet which can be configured to be front and rear facing (though this will increase overall width of the chassis). Tandems are typically easier to maneuver over kerbs, however they it can be a struggle to navigate through narrow doorways and aisles.