Buying a Double Pushchair For Twins Or Two Siblings Close in Age?
Double pushchairs are perfect for families with twins or children with similar age. Choose from tandem models or side-by-side configurations like the Mountain Buggy Duet V3 which is small enough to fit in standard doors.
Many models can be used with a baby car seats and come with reclining seats. Some models can even be changed to single mode. The egg2 Pushchair is a favorite because of its design and flexibility.
Side by Side
The side-byside buggy is the most popular choice for families with twins, or siblings of different ages. These typically offer 2 fixed seats with a single canopy, and are usually larger than an inline buggy, which gives each child the same view. They're easy to navigate, and some come with front and rear suspensions to provide better control over bumps or over the kerb while turning.
Although they may cost more than other double buggies, they are likely to have better resale value when you purchase a well-known brand. They're ideal for jogging and can tackle rough terrain. The seats provide plenty of space for your kids to sit comfortably. Buggies are available in a range of colors and styles to match your family's preferences.
Some models come with additional accessories to keep your baby comfortable. These can include seat cushions, head supports and baby blankets. Some might include pockets to store snacks and toys. Parents can even get a buggy that has a parent console for keeping essentials handy.
The 2023 version of this popular buggy features a fresh design and a larger sun canopy and brand new logos. It's a chic option for parents who are image-conscious and compatible with iCandy child car seats. It's also easy to put together however Kerry discovered that it took a long time to get all of the parts out of the boxes. The packaging was clever and well-labeled, which made it easier to determine what you can expect from each piece.
It's a bit heavier than other double buggies, but still fairly light for an inline model. It is also very versatile and can be used with either one or two infant car seats. It can even switch from a single to a tandem with a single click and is a huge advantage for families with growing children.
The UPPAbaby Vista V2 is a fantastic double stroller that is ideal for parents with busy schedules. It is easy to maneuver and can cope with rough terrain. It comes with a huge basket, independent recline on both seats, and a five-point strap that is padded to keep your kids safe.
Tandem
The innovative frame of this pushchair is able to expand widthways, allowing you to add a second seat without sacrificing space. This is a great choice for twins, as it can fit two carrycots or a car seat. It's also a great option for road trips. It's a little heavier than some of 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 among parents who are obsessed with their image and has an extremely stylish, sleek design. Its main seat can be repositioned into four different positions, and it will increase in size with your child's weight to 25kg. The addition of a second seat is easy thanks to the quick-release Velcro fasteners. This model can be used in tandem mode, with one child sitting on the top of the other. It's a great option for sleepy babies who you don't want disturb during their sleep.
The seat is placed one ahead of the other in this configuration which makes it harder for toddlers to distract each other while you're out and about. This type of pushchair usually has a padded main seat that can recline fully making it suitable for newborns. Some models have a taller, more upright seat in the back for older children, and it's typically possible to arrange the seats to be oriented so that they are facing each other or world facing according to the model of the pushchair. With a tandem pushchair it's more streamlined to fit through narrow doorways, but it can be difficult to negotiate kerbs and stairs with two children.
A fantastic option for families with special needs, this versatile pushchair is a nifty solution for children with disabilities who benefit from having another child to play with and encourage. It's not cheap, but the sturdy construction is made to last, and there's plenty of storage space to store everything you'll need. It comes with a range of accessories that will allow you to personalize the buggy according to the needs of your family, such as rain covers or lines.
Lightweight
The best double pushchairs that are lightweight are agile and compact, making them easy to use. They're typically constructed 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. Look for additional extras like a sunshade rain cover, and foot muff.
If you're after a lightweight double buggy that has a reasonable price, then the Cybex Mios is worth considering. It straddles two categories as it is a fully-functional travel system and a lightweight buggy that can be used from birth with the addition of the carrycot. It has a side-by-side design and both seats recline independently providing the ideal position for toddlers and babies. It comes with a huge UPF 50+ canopy, peekaboo windows and a toddler seat that's fully padded and adjustable.
Another option is the UPPAbaby Vista 2. It can be used to carry twins or a baby and toddler. It can be used with a variety of car seats. It features a stylish and sleek frame with large wheels on the back to handle rough terrain. It's also great for jogging. It can be a bit long when it's used in double mode there's no storage space beneath the seat.
When comparing double pushchairs, take into consideration the weight of each seat, frame and suspension. The heavier the buggy is, the more difficult it will be to push, particularly over uneven surfaces. Check the dimensions of the folding and whether or not you are able to remove the seats, which makes it smaller. Look for features like a one-handed folding, which Kirstie who was a home tester at the time, described as "genius", or a strap can be worn over your shoulder.
You can also choose a tandem double stroller which puts the kids one behind another. It's not as easy to maneuver as a side-byside, but it's still a great option for families with multiple children and is suitable for older toddlers. There are also tandems with reclining seats which allow children to lie down or sit down depending on their mood and requirements.
Comfortable
If you're the parent of twins or have two siblings close in age, having the perfect double pushchair will make outings a whole lot simpler. There are a variety of comfy options on the market. If you're looking to purchase a side-by-side model that can accommodate a seat and carrycot or a tandem with an removable rear and front seat, there's bound to be a suitable option for your family.
Find seats with several recline positions and adjustable calfrests. They are usually controlled by one-handed buttons accessible from the rear of the seat. (Though in our testing it can be fiddly for small-handed parents). Some of the top double pushchairs come with an extensive UPF 50+ sun canopy with windows that are magnetic and an incredibly useful hood extension to protect your children from harmful UV rays.
Convertible Doubles
One of the best ways to save money is to invest in a convertible pushchair that can change from single to double mode as your children develop. The egg2, for example is a chic option that can be used with the toddler seat that comes with it or a baby carrier right 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 the way it can grow with your family.
On the other side, if you're looking for a budget option that can last from birth to toddlerhood, consider the iCandy Venus. It comes with a footmuff and seat, but can be converted into a twin-sized stroller by using the brand's infant Cocoons (available at a price of PS59 per piece). Our labs loved the ease of being able to switch between configurations. They also found the instruction to be easy and simple however it might take some time.
Some double pushchairs will only allow you to place your children side-by-side. They are generally oriented towards the world, but there are some exceptions such as the Bugaboo Donkey and Mountain Buggy Duet that can be configured to allow both front and parent facing seating (though this can increase the overall size of the chassis). Kerb popping is generally more straightforward with a tandem, but getting through doorways and narrow aisles for shopping can be difficult at times.