Buying a Double Pushchair For Twins Or Two Siblings Close in Age?
Double pushchairs are ideal for families with twins or children of similar ages. Choose between tandem models or side-byside configurations such as the Mountain Buggy Duet V3 which is small enough to fit standard doorways.
Many models are compatible with infant car seats and include reclined seats. Some even convert to single mode, like with the egg2 Pushchair that is appreciated for its style and versatility.
Side by Side
The side-byside buggy is a popular option 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 allow both children to observe the same things. They are simple to maneuver and even have front and rear suspensions for better control when crossing kerbs or bumps.
While they are more expensive than other double buggies but they tend to have better resale value, especially if you choose a well-known brand. They're ideal for jogging and can withstand rough terrain, while the seats are spacious enough for your children to relax. Buggies come in a variety of colours and styles to suit your family's tastes.
Some models include extra accessories that can help keep your baby snug. These can include baby blankets and seats, liners, and head supports. Some might have pockets to store toys and snacks. Parents can also find a buggy that has a console for parents to keep essentials handy.
The 2023 version of this popular buggy comes with a new look with a larger sun canopy and fresh logos. It's a stylish choice for parents who are image-conscious and is compatible with iCandy child car seats. It's easy to put together although Kerry discovered that it took some time to take the pieces out of their boxes. However, the boxing was well-labeled and efficient, which made it easier to determine what you can expect from each component.
It's heavier than other double buggies but it's still fairly light for an inline model. It's also incredibly versatile, and you can use it with two or more infant car seats. It can be converted from a single seat into an entire tandem in just a single click.
The UPPAbaby vista v2 is a great double stroller that is ideal for parents with busy schedules. It's extremely easy to maneuver in tight spaces and can handle tough terrain easily. It is also equipped with a large shopping basket, independent recline for both seats, and a padded 5-point harness to keep your kids safe.
Tandem
The innovative frame of this pushchair expands widthways, allowing you to add another seat without compromising on space. It's a great choice for twins from birth, and will take 2 carrycots or car seats also, making it a fantastic travel system for road trips. It's a little heavier than its rivals and could seem a bit bulky when used 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. The reclining seat can be adjusted to four different positions, and it will increase in size with your children's weight to 25kg. The addition of a second seat is simple thanks to the quick-release Velcro fastenings, and this model can be used in tandem mode, with one child sitting on the other. This is a great option if you want to avoid disturbing your newborn baby.
The seats are placed one in front of the other, making it harder for toddlers and their parents to get distracted when they are out and about. This kind of pushchair comes with an upholstered seat that can fully recline and is suitable for babies. 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 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 may be a challenge to get around kerbs and stairs with two children.
This multi-purpose pushchair is a great option for families with special needs children. It's a great solution for children with disabilities who could benefit from 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 all the things you'll require. It comes with a variety of accessories that will allow you to customise the buggy to suit your family, including rain covers and liner.
Lightweight
The best double pushchairs with a lightweight design are light, compact and simple to use. Some have air-filled tires to help them glide on rough surfaces. They can also have an easy fold with one hand and shoulder straps to make them easier to carry. You could consider adding additional accessories like an ankle muff, a sunshade or rain cover.
The Cybex Mios is a lightweight double stroller that has an affordable price. It is a travel system that can be used as a lightweight stroller, as well as a fully-functional travel system. A carrycot can be added to make it suitable for use from birth. It has a side-by-side design and both seats recline independently making it a perfect position for babies and toddlers. It has a large UPF 50+ canopy, peekaboo windows, and a toddler seat that is fully cushioned and adjustable.
UPPAbaby Vista 2 is another top contender. It can be used to carry twins, or a baby and a toddler, and is compatible with a wide range of car seats. It's a stylish and sleek frame, with large wheels at the back that can handle rough terrain. It's also ideal for running. The double mode could make it a bit long, and there's no storage underneath the seat.
When comparing different double pushchairs, think about the weight of the frame, seat and suspension. The heavier the buggy is heavier, the more difficult it will be to push. This is particularly true on uneven surfaces. Check the dimensions of the folding and whether or not you can remove the seats, making it smaller. Look for features like a simple one-handed fold that home tester Kirstie described as "genius" and a useful strap to sling over your shoulders.
You can also choose a tandem double stroller that places the children one behind another. It's not as maneuverable however, it's still an ideal choice for many families. It may be better suited to older toddlers. There are tandems with reclining seats, that allow children to sit up or lie down based on their mood and needs.
Comfortable
Whether you're a parent of twins or two kids close in age, having the right double pushchair can make getting out much easier. There are a variety of comfy options on the market. There are plenty of options for families, whether you're searching for a side-by- side model that can accommodate both a carrycot and seats or a tandem model with seats in the front and back that can be swapped.
In addition to padded straps, buckles and headrests, look for seats that have multiple recline positions and adjustable calf rests. Often, these will be controlled via easy-to-use one-handed buttons that are accessible from the back of the seat (though in our labs it can be a little fiddly for parents with small hands). Some of the top double pushchairs also offer an enormous UPF 50+ sun canopy that has magnetic peekaboo windows as well as a handy hood extender to shield your children from harmful UV radiation.
Convertible Doubles
You can save money by purchasing an infant stroller that can be converted from single to dual mode as your child develops. The egg2, for instance is a chic option that works 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 adored by the home testers who adored how it could 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 option. It includes a seat and footmuff but can also be used with the brand's newborn cocoons (available separately at PS59 each) to transform it into a twin pram suitable for twins or babies/toddlers. Our labs were impressed by how easy it is to change between configurations and found the instructions clear and easy to follow - even though it can take some practice to get it all out of the box.
Some double pushchairs allow you to seat your children side by side and are generally world-facing. However there are some notable exceptions like the Bugaboo Donkey or Mountain Buggy Duet which can be configured both for front and parent facing (though this can increase the overall width of the chassis). Kerb popping is generally more straightforward with a tandem, but the narrow doorways and aisles for shopping can be an issue at times.