Buying a Double Pushchair For Twins Or Two Siblings Close in Age?
Double pushchairs are great for families with twins or children with similar ages. Choose from side-by-side configurations or tandem models such as the Mountain Buggy Duet V3 that's slim enough to pass through doors that are standard.
Many models also have reclining seats that lay flat and can be used with infant car seats. Some models can even be converted to single mode. The egg2 Pushchair is a favorite because of its design and versatility.
Side by Side
The side-by-side buggy is the most popular choice 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, which gives both children the same view. They're easy to move, and some even have front and rear suspension to provide better control over bumps or over the kerb when turning.
While they are more expensive than other double buggies, they tend to have better resale value particularly if you select an established brand. These buggies are also great for jogging, and can be used on rough terrain. The seats have plenty of room for your kids to sit comfortably. These buggies come in a variety of colours and styles to suit your family's taste.
Some models come with additional accessories that will help to keep your baby comfortable. These include baby blankets and liners, seat cushions, and head supports. They might also have pockets for storing snacks and toys. Parents can even get an infant buggy with an adult console to keep the essentials in their reach.
The 2023 version of the popular buggy comes with a new look with a larger sun canopy and fresh logos. It's a chic option for image-conscious parents and is compatible with iCandy car seats. It's simple to put together, but Kerry found that it took a long time to get the parts out of their boxes. However, the packaging was well-labeled and clever making it easier to know what to expect from each piece.
It's a little 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 one or two infant car seats. It can even change from a single seat to a tandem with a single click, which is a big bonus for growing families.
compact twin stroller is a great double stroller that is ideal for parents with busy schedules. It's super easy to maneuver in tight spaces and can handle the tough terrain with ease. It comes with a large basket, independent recline on both seats, and a five-point cushioned harness to keep your kids safe.
Tandem
This clever frame expands in width, allowing an additional seat to be added without compromising space. This is a great choice for twins, as it can fit two car seats or carrycots. It's also a great option for road trips. It is a little larger and heavier than some of its competitors, however it has plenty of storage space and a large basket for shopping. The iCandy Peach is a favourite among image-conscious parents and boasts an extremely stylish, sleek design. Its main seat can be adjusted into four different positions and will increase in size with your child's weight to 25kg. The quick-release Velcro fasteners allow you to add a second seat. This model can be used in tandem mode, with one child sitting on top of another. It's a great option if you have sleepy newborns who you don't want to disturb during their sleep.
The seat is set one ahead of the other in this arrangement and it's difficult for toddlers to keep from distracting one another while out and out and about. This kind of pushchair comes with padding that allows the seat to fully recline, making it suitable for babies. Some models feature a higher sitting position, with a more upright backrest in the back for older children. It's often possible to configure them to face one another or face each other, depending on the style of the buggy. It's much easier to maneuver through narrow doors with a tandem pushchair, however, it can be difficult to nip up kerbs and stairs with two kids in tow.
This multi-purpose pushchair is a great option for families with children with special needs. It's an excellent option for kids with disabilities who benefit from having a younger sibling to play with and encourage. It's not cheap, but it's built to last. There's plenty of storage space to meet your needs. It comes with a range of accessories that will allow you to customize the buggy to meet your family's needs like rain covers or lines.
Lightweight
The best lightweight double strollers are compact, easily maneuverable and nimble. They're usually made of a sturdy aluminum frame, and some have air-filled wheels that help them glide over even rough surfaces. Some models come with a one handed fold and shoulder straps that make them much easier to carry. Find additional accessories like a sunshade rain cover and foot muff.
If you're looking for a light double buggy that has a reasonable price tag then the Cybex Mios is worth considering. It straddles two categories as both a full-functioning travel system as well as a light buggy that can be used from birth, with the addition of a carrycot. It features a side-byside design and both seats recline independently, providing the ideal position for toddlers and babies. It features a large UPF 50+ canopy, peekaboo windows, and a toddler seat that is fully cushioned and adjustable.
Another top contender is the UPPAbaby Vista 2. It can carry twins, or a baby and toddler. It is compatible with a variety of car seats. It has an elegant and stylish frame with large rear wheels that can withstand rough terrain, and is also suitable for jogging. It's a little long when used in double mode, though there's no storage space beneath the seat.
When comparing different double pushchairs, think about the weight of each seat, frame and suspension. The heavier the pushchair is, the more difficult to push, particularly on uneven surfaces. Make sure to check the dimensions of the folding, and then see if you can take off the seat to make it more compact. Consider features such as one-handed folding, which Kirstie, a home tester at the time, described as "genius", or straps that can be worn over your shoulder.
Alternatively, you can opt for a tandem pushchair that places children one behind the other. It's not as maneuverable however it is an excellent option for many families. It may be more suitable for older toddlers. There are also tandems with reclining seats which give children the flexibility to lie down or sit down depending on their mood and requirements.
Comfortable
A double pushchair that is well-designed can simplify your travels, whether you have twins or two kids with similar age. There's a great variety of comfortable choices on the market. If you're looking to purchase an side-by-side model that will accommodate a seat and carrycot or a tandem that has an interchangeable front and rear seat, there's sure to be a suitable option for your family.
In addition to padded straps, buckles and headrests, search for seats with multiple reclining positions and adjustable the calf rests. These are often controlled by one-handed buttons located at the rear of the seat. (Though in our tests, this could be a little difficult for parents with small hands). Some of the top double pushchairs also offer an enormous UPF 50+ sun canopy with magnetic peekaboo windows and an easy-to-use hood extender that can protect your children from harmful UV radiation.
Convertible Doubles
One way to save money is to purchase a convertible pushchair that can change from single to double mode as your children grow. The egg2, for instance is a fashionable option that works with the included toddler seat or baby carrier right from birth. It comes with a second RumbleSeat for older siblings. The reclining seats and spacious carrycots were adored by home testers who loved the possibility of it growing with your family.
On the other the other hand, if you're searching for a budget-friendly 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 turn it into 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 directions clear and easy to follow - even though it takes some practice to get it all out of the box.
Some double pushchairs 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 set up to allow both front and parent facing seating (though this can result in an increase in the overall size of the chassis). Kerb popping is typically easier with a tandem but getting through doorways and narrow aisles of shopping can be an issue at times.