Buying a Double Pushchair For Twins Or Two Siblings Close in Age?
If you're expecting twins or two children close in age, a double pushchair will give you the flexibility you need for your growing family. Select from side-by-side or tandem models like the Mountain Buggy Duet V3 that's narrow enough to fit through standard doorways.
Many models also come with reclining seats that lay flat and are compatible with infant car seats. Some even convert to single mode, like with the egg2 Pushchair which is loved for its style and versatility.
Side by Side
The side-by-side buggy is an ideal option for families with twins or siblings of different age. They usually have 2 fixed seats and one canopy. They are also larger than inline buggy to allow both children to be able to see the same thing. They're easy to move, and some even have front and rear suspensions to help with handling bumps or over kerbs when turning.
They may cost more than other double buggies however they have a better cost of resales, especially if they are a popular brand. They're ideal for jogging and can tackle rough terrain, and the seats provide plenty of space for your kids to sit comfortably. Buggies are available in a range of colors and styles to suit your family's preferences.
Some models come with additional accessories to help keep your baby in a comfortable position. These can include head cushions, seat supports and baby blankets. Some of them may have pockets to store snacks and toys. Parents can get a buggy that has a console to keep things close to hand.
The popular buggy's 2023 model has a new look and a bigger sun canopy, and new logos. It's a stylish choice for image-conscious parents 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 of the parts out of the boxes. The packaging was well-labeled and smart and made it easy to identify what each component would look like.
It's a bit 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 seat. It can be converted from a single seat into a tandem with just a single click.
The Vista v2 UPPAbaby is a top pick for double strollers. It's ideal for parents who are busy. It is simple to maneuver and can cope with rough terrain. It comes with a large basket, independent recline on both seats, and a 5-point padded harness to keep your kids safe.
Tandem
The clever frame of this pushchair expands widthways which allows you to add a second seat without compromising space. It's an excellent choice for twins from birth and can accommodate 2 carrycots or car seats also which makes it a great travel system for road trips. It's a bit larger and heavier than some of its competitors, however it has plenty of storage space and 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 reclining main seat also can be adjusted to four different positions, and will grow with your children up to 25kg. The quick-release Velcro fasteners make it simple to add a second seat. This model can also be used in tandem mode, putting one child seated on the top of another. This is a great option if you want to avoid disturbing your newborn baby.
The seat is set one in front of the other in this setup and it's harder for toddlers to distract each other while you're out and out and about. This type of pushchair typically has a padded main seat that is able to recline completely making it ideal for babies. Many models will feature a higher, more upright seat in the back for older children, and it's usually possible to set the seats to be oriented so that they are facing one another or to face the world 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 navigate kerbs or staircases with two children with you.
A great option for families with special needs This multi-functional pushchair is a nifty solution for disabled children who benefit from having an older sibling to play with and encourage. It's not cheap, but the solid construction is made to last, and there's plenty of storage space for all the things you'll need. It comes with a range of accessories to allow you to personalize the buggy according to your family's needs, such as rain covers or liners.
Lightweight
The best lightweight double pushchairs are nimble and compact, making them simple to use. They're typically made of a sturdy aluminum frame, and some come with air-filled wheels to help them glide over even rough surfaces. Some models feature a one handed fold and shoulder straps that make them much easier to carry. You can also look for other accessories like a sunshade rain cover and foot muff.
If you're after a lightweight double buggy with a great price tag then the Cybex Mios is worth considering. It is it is a fully-functional travel system and a light buggy, and can be used from birth with the addition of a carrycot. It is a side-by-side model and both seats recline independently, offering an ideal positioning for toddlers and babies. It features 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 accommodate twins or a baby and a toddler, and is compatible with a range of car seats. It's a stylish and sleek frame, with large wheels at the back to withstand rough terrain. It's also great for running. The double mode makes it a bit long, and there's no storage space underneath the seat.
When comparing double pushchairs, consider the weight of each seat, as well as the frame and suspension. The heavier the buggy 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 it's possible to remove the seats, which makes it more compact. Check for small double stroller like an easy one-handed fold that home tester Kirstie described as "genius" and a useful strap that you can sling over your shoulders.
Alternatively, you can choose a tandem double pushchair, which places children one behind the other. It is not as maneuverable however it is a great option for families with multiple children. It may be better suited to older toddlers. Certain tandems have recliner seats that let children lie down or sit up according to their mood.
Confortable
A double pushchair that is well-designed can help you get out more easily no matter if you have twins or two kids of similar age. There's a great variety of comfortable choices that are available. If you're looking to purchase an side-by-side model that will accommodate a carrycot and seat or a tandem model with an adjustable rear and front seat, there's bound to be a suitable option for your family.
Look for seats that have multiple reclining positions as well as adjustable calfrests. These are typically operated by a single-handed button located at the rear of the seat. (Though in our labs this could be a little difficult for parents with small hands). Some of the best double strollers also have an enormous UPF50+ sun canopy, a magnetic peekaboo windows and a handy hood extension that shields your child from harmful UV radiation.
Convertible Doubles
One way to save money is to invest in a convertible pushchair that can be converted from single mode to double as your children grow. The egg2, for example is a fashionable option that can be used with the toddler seat included or baby carrier from birth and comes with a second RumbleSeat for older siblings. The reclining seats as well as the spacious carrycots were especially well-loved by home testers who loved the possibility of it growing with your family.
On the other hand, if you're looking for a low-cost option that can last from birth to toddlerhood, try the iCandy Venus. It includes a footmuff as well as a seat, but it can be transformed into a twin-sized stroller by using the brand's new Cocoons (available at PS59 per piece). Our labs liked the ease of being able to switch between configurations. They also found the directions to be easy and simple, although it may require some time.
Some double pushchairs allow you to sit your children side-by-side and generally face the world however there are exceptions like the Bugaboo Donkey and Mountain Buggy Duet that can be configured for both front and parent facing seating (though this will increase the overall dimensions of the chassis). Tandems are usually more maneuverable over kerbs, however they can be a challenge to maneuver through narrow doors and aisles.