Buying a Double Pushchair For Twins Or Two Siblings Close in Age?
If you have twins or two kids close in age, a double pushchair gives you the flexibility you need for your growing family. Choose from side-by-side configurations or tandem models such as the Mountain Buggy Duet V3 that's narrow enough to fit through doors that are standard.
Many models also offer recliners that can be laid flat and are compatible with infant car seats. Some models can even be converted to single mode, as with the egg2 Pushchair which is loved for its style and versatility.
Side by Side
Side-by-side strollers are an ideal option for families with twins or siblings of different age groups. They typically have two fixed seats with a single canopy, and are usually larger than an inline buggy to allow both children the same view. They are simple to maneuver and even have front and back suspensions to help with going over bumps or kerbs.
They can be more expensive than other double buggies however they are more cost of resales, especially when they're a well-known brand. These buggies are also great for jogging and can be used on rough terrain. The seats provide plenty of space for your children to relax comfortably. Buggies are available in a variety of colors and styles to fit your family's tastes.
Some models come with additional accessories that can help keep your baby in a comfortable position. These may include head supports, and baby blankets. Some may include pockets to store snacks and toys. Parents can even find a buggy that has a parent console for keeping important items in one place.
The 2023 version of the popular buggy has an updated look and a larger sun canopy, and new logos. It's a stylish choice for parents who are conscious of their image and is compatible with iCandy child car seats. It's simple to put together, but Kerry found that it took a long time to take the pieces out of their boxes. The packaging was clever and well-labeled making it easier to know what to expect from each component.
It's heavier than other double buggies, however it's still quite light for an inline-model. It's also extremely versatile and can be used with either one or two infant car seats. It can even change from a single to tandem with just one click and is a huge benefit for families that are growing.
The UPPAbaby Vista v2 is another top choice for double strollers, and it's perfect for busy parents. It's incredibly maneuverable in tight spaces and can handle difficult terrain easily. It comes with a large basket, independent recline on both seats, and a 5-point padded harness to keep your children safe.
Tandem
This clever frame expands in size, allowing the possibility of a second seat being added without compromising space. This is a great option for twins since it can accommodate two carrycots or car seat. It's also a great travel system for road trips. It's a little heavier than its competitors and can appear to be a bit long when in double mode, but it has a good amount of storage, including a roomy shopping basket. The iCandy Peach is a favourite for parents who are conscious of their image and has an incredibly stylish, sleek design. Its main seat can be adjusted into four different positions and will grow with your child up to 25kg. The addition of a second seat is simple thanks to the quick-release Velcro fasteners. This model can be used in tandem mode, with one child on top of the other. It's a great choice for sleepy babies that you don't want to disrupt their sleep.
The seats are placed one in front of the other which makes it more difficult for toddlers and their parents to be distracted while they're out and out and about. This type of pushchair typically has a padded main seat that is able to recline completely, so it's suitable for newborns. double stroller for twins will have a taller and more upright seat in the back for older children. It's often possible to configure them to face one another or to face the world, depending on the style of the pushchair. It's easier to get through narrow doors with a tandem pushchair, however it can be a challenge to nip up kerbs and staircases with two children in the back.
A fantastic choice for special needs families This multi-functional pushchair is a great solution for disabled children who benefit from having another child to play with and encourage. It's a bit pricey 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 variety of accessories to allow you to personalize the buggy according to your family's requirements like rain covers or liners.
Lightweight
The most lightweight double strollers are compact, easy to maneuver and agile. Some models have air-filled tires to assist them in gliding over rough surfaces. They can also have an easy fold with one hand and shoulder straps that make them more convenient to carry. Look for additional extras like a sunshade rain cover and foot muff.
The Cybex Mios is a lightweight double stroller with an affordable price. It's a traveling system that can be used as a light stroller, as well as a fully-functional travel system. A carrycot can be added to make it suitable for use from the time of birth. It is the side-by-side design with both seats recline separately. This provides the ideal positioning for babies and young toddlers. It has a generous UPF 50+ canopy with peekaboo windows and the toddler seat is padded with adjustable leg and foot rests.
Another popular option is the UPPAbaby Vista 2. It can carry twins or a baby and a toddler, and it is compatible with a range of car seats. It has a sleek and stylish frame with large back wheels to cope with rough terrain, and is also suitable for running. It can be a bit long when it's used in double mode, though there's no storage space underneath the seat.
When comparing double pushchairs, take into consideration the weight of each seat as well as the frame and suspension. The heavier the pushchair is, the more difficult it will be to push, particularly over uneven surfaces. Be sure to look at the dimensions of the folding and see if it's possible to remove the seat to make it smaller. Look for features such as a simple one-handed fold, which test-run tester Kirstie described as "genius" and a convenient strap that you can wear over your shoulders.
Alternatively, you can opt for a tandem pushchair, which places children behind each other. It is not as maneuverable however it is a great option for many families. It might be better suited to older toddlers. You'll also find some tandems with reclining seats that allow children to sit up or lie down based on their mood and requirements.
Comfortable
A good double pushchair will simplify your travels no matter if you have twins or two kids with similar age. Thankfully, there's a wide variety of comfortable choices on the market. If you're looking for a side-by-side model that can accommodate a carrycot and seat or a tandem model with an removable rear and front seat, there's bound to be the perfect choice for your family.
Find seats with various reclining positions and adjustable calfrests. Often, these will be operated by single-handed buttons accessible from the back of the seat (though in our testing, this can prove a little fiddly for parents with small hands). Some of the best double pushchairs also offer an extensive UPF 50+ sun canopy that has windows that are magnetic and an incredibly useful hood extension to shield your children from harmful UV radiation.
Convertible Doubles
You can save money by investing in the pushchair that can convert from single to dual mode as your child grows. The egg2, for example is a chic option that can be used 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 especially well-loved by test subjects at home who loved the possibility of it growing with your family.
If you're looking for a budget-friendly option that will last to toddlerhood and beyond the iCandy Venus is a great choice. 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 an infant pram that can be used by twins or infants/toddlers. Our labs were impressed by the ease of use to switch between the different configurations. They also found the directions to be simple and clear, although it may take some time.
Some double pushchairs permit you to seat your children together and are usually 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 will increase overall width of the chassis). Kerb popping is typically easier with a tandem but getting through doorways and narrow aisles of shopping can be a challenge at times.