Buying a Double Pushchair For Twins Or Two Siblings Close in Age?
If you're expecting twins or two children that are close in age, a double pushchair gives the flexibility you need for your growing family. Select from tandem models or side-byside configurations such as the Mountain Buggy Duet V3 which is small enough to fit in standard doors.
Many models also have recliners that lie flat and are compatible with infant car seats. Some models can be changed to single mode. The egg2 Pushchair is a popular choice because of its design and flexibility.
Side by Side
Side-by-side is the most popular choice for families with twins or siblings of different ages. They typically have two fixed seats and a single canopy. They are also more spacious than inline buggy models to let both children observe the same things. They are easy to maneuver and some even come with front and back suspensions for better control when traversing kerbs or bumps.
They can be more expensive than other double buggies however they have a better resale price, especially when they're a popular brand. They're also great for jogging and can withstand rough terrain. The seats are spacious enough for your children to sit comfortably. Buggies are available in a wide range of colors and designs to fit your family's style.
Some models come with additional accessories to help keep your baby snug. These include baby blankets and liners, seat cushions, and head supports. They could also come with pockets to store snacks and toys. Parents can get the perfect buggy that features a console to keep important items close by.
This popular buggy's 2023 version features a fresh look, a larger sun canopy, and fresh logos. It's a stylish choice for parents who are conscious of their image and is compatible with iCandy child car seats. It's also easy to assemble but Kerry discovered that it took quite a while to get everything out of the boxes. The packaging was well-labeled and smart making it easy to determine what each part would be similar to.
It's a little heavier than other double buggies, however it's still quite light for an inline-model. It's also extremely versatile, and it can be used with one or two infant car seats. It can be transformed from a single seat to a tandem with only one click.
The UPPAbaby Vista v2 is another top pick for double strollers. It's ideal for busy parents. It's simple to maneuver and can take on rough terrain. It also comes with a large shopping basket, independent recline for both seats, and a padded 5-point harness to keep your kids secure.
Tandem
The clever frame of this pushchair expands widthways which allows you to add a second seat without sacrificing space. This is a great choice for twins, as it can fit two carrycots or car seat. It's also a great option for road trips. It's heavier than its rivals and could appear to be a bit long when in double mode but it's got plenty of storage, including a roomy shopping basket. The iCandy Peach is a favourite among image-conscious parents and boasts an incredibly sleek, stylish design. The reclining seat can be adjusted to four different positions, and it'll grow with your children up to 25kg. It is easy thanks to the quick-release Velcro fasteners, and this model can be used in tandem mode with one child sitting on the other. It's a great option for sleepy babies who you don't want to disturb in their sleep.
This configuration places the seats one in front of another which makes it difficult for toddlers and their parents to be 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 will feature a higher sitting position, with a more upright backrest in the back for older children, and it's typically possible to arrange them to be facing one another or face each other depending on the design of the pushchair. It's easier to navigate narrow doorways with a tandem pushchair but it can be hard to get up kerbs and stairs with two children in tow.
This multi-functional pushchair is an excellent choice for families with special needs children. It's an excellent option for children with disabilities who could benefit from having a younger sibling that they can play with and encourage. It's not expensive, but it's made to last. There's plenty of space for all your needs. It comes with a variety of accessories that will allow you to personalize the buggy according to your family's requirements like rain covers or liners.
Lightweight
The most double pushchairs with a lightweight design are light compact and simple to use. They're usually made of a sturdy aluminum frame, but some also have air-filled wheels that help them move over rough surfaces. Some models have an easy fold that can be folded with one hand and shoulder straps that make them easier for you to carry. Look for additional extras such as a sunshade, rain cover, and foot muff.
If you're after a lightweight double buggy that comes with a fantastic 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 fully-functional travel system. A carrycot can be added to make it suitable for use from birth. It is a side-by-side model and both seats recline independently, providing the ideal position for babies and toddlers. It features a spacious UPF 50+ canopy with windows that peek out, and the toddler seat is padded with foot and leg rests that can be adjusted.
UPPAbaby Vista 2 is another top contender. It can be used to carry twins or a baby and a toddler. It can be used with a variety of car seats. It features an elegant and stylish frame with big back wheels to cope with rough terrain, and it's also suitable for running. It's a little long when in double mode it doesn't have storage space beneath the seat.
When comparing different double pushchairs, consider the weight of the frame, seat and suspension. The heavier the pushchair is, the more difficult to push, particularly on uneven surfaces. Check the dimensions of the folding and whether or not you are able to remove the seats, which makes it smaller. Check for features like an easy 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 the other. It is not as maneuverable however it is an excellent option for many families. It could be better suited to older toddlers. Certain tandems have recliner seats that allow children to lie down or recline according to their mood.
Confortable
Whether you're a parent of twins or two kids close in age, having the best double pushchair can make outings much simpler. There's a great variety of comfortable choices that are available. If you're looking for a side-byside model that can accommodate a carrycot and seat or a tandem that has an interchangeable front and rear seat, there's bound to be the perfect choice for your family.
In addition to buckles, straps with padding and headrests, search for seats with multiple recline positions and adjustable the calf rests. Often, these will be controlled via easy-to-use single-handed buttons accessible from the back of the seat (though in our testing this could be a little fiddly for parents with small hands). Some of the best double pushchairs also come with an enormous UPF 50+ sun canopy that has magnetic peekaboo windows and a handy hood extender to shield your children from harmful UV radiation.
Convertible Doubles
One way to save money is to purchase a convertible pushchair which can convert 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 using the baby or toddler carrier and even comes with a RumbleSeat additional option for older siblings. Its reclining seats and spacious, comfy carrycots are particularly appreciated by home testers, who appreciate how it will grow with your family.
On the other hand, if you're looking for a low-cost option that can last from birth to toddlerhood, check out the iCandy Venus. It comes with a seat and footmuff but can also be used with the brand's newborn cocoons (available separately at PS59 each) to transform it into an infant pram that can be used by twins or babies/toddlers. Our labs were impressed by the ease of being able to switch between the different configurations. They also found the instructions to be easy and simple however it might take some practice.
Some double pushchairs will only allow you to place with your children in a row and are generally oriented towards the world however there are exceptions such as the Bugaboo Donkey and Mountain Buggy Duet that can be configured to allow both front and parent facing seating (though this will increase the overall dimensions of the chassis). Tandems are usually easier to maneuver over kerbs, however they can be difficult to navigate through narrow aisles and doorways.