Buying a Tandem Double Buggy
If you have twins or children very close in age, a tandem double buggie is a great option. They're narrower than side-by-side buggies and are ideal for maneuvering tight spaces such as doors, on public transport and on rocky terrain.
Some convert into travel systems that include two carrycots or car seats. They are typically heavier, longer and less stable than a single pushchair.
Convertible
Whether you're looking for a convertible stroller that can be converted from a single to a double or to add an additional seat to an existing one, there are a variety of options available. The UPPAbaby V2 is a spacious, gorgeous stroller. It can be easily changed from a single to a dual by adding a rumble seat. It is more expensive and less maneuverable since the second seat is positioned in front of the first seat. The Nuna Demi Grow is a similar model with a wide range of seating options, but does not have storage under the seat when used in doubles mode.
Other options include twin buggies that have all-terrain wheels, and joggers with fixed wheels that can be used to carry two kids. They are more expensive however, they are designed for long-distance trips over rough terrain, and come with more expensive resales.
Reclining seat recline independently
If you're looking for a double buggy to carry children of different age groups, then you'll need a buggy that has an recline that is independent for both seats. This will allow your child's older to sit back and relax while the baby is in the bassinet, and vice versa.
Consider the size of your pushchair to determine how easy it is for you to maneuver through doors and public transportation. If your doorways are very narrow, you may want to consider a side-by-side pushchair like the Mountain Buggy Duet. It has a footprint that is similar to a single stroller but can still accommodate two seats and car seat adaptors.
Tandem buggies tend to be larger than side-by-side models, and therefore are more difficult to maneuver up and down kerbs. However they can be able to accommodate more combinations of seats/carrycots/car seats and can make the perfect choice for twins and siblings of different ages. They are also more expensive than single-to-double buggies, but are a worthwhile investment if you intend to keep it for a long time and have a good amount of resale value if you decide to sell it off when your children are out of it.
Another thing to look out for is if the seat backs are able to recline independently from one another since this will allow you to put your child in the ideal position for naps or watching. This is crucial for children who are in the back seat and wishes to rest while the older child prefers to sit up and observe the surrounding.
Certain brands have a unique design that allows the back of their vehicles to recline to a position that is almost flat, perfect for babies. The iCandy Orange, for example is a stadium-style seat that can be reclined into various positions. It also has a UPF 50+ canopy and peekaboo windows.
double pram pushchair than twin buggies
You don't need to have twins in order to benefit from a bigger double buggy. They're great for siblings of different age groups and let you get around without having to worry about your children touching each other. They're typically a little larger too, with one seat sitting behind the other and providing a flat recline for babies (or an upright position for toddlers).
Mountain Buggy Duet is a popular choice. It is the slimmest design that is side-by-side and a footprint that is similar to the footprint of a single stroller. It also has an adjustable handle, making it easier for parents of different heights to push, and a handbrake that is useful when tackling difficult terrains. It is suitable for use from birth, and can be paired with a variety of car seats and carrycots.
Another alternative is the iCandy Wave, which has an easy one-click fold and can be used in mono or duo mode. The frame's clever design can be expanded widthwise to allow for a second seat and it can be used with up to two car seats or carrycots so it's an excellent option for older siblings that wish to sit together and share the view. It's a little longer than other models, but it's easy to steer and has soft suspension that is able to handle kerbs.
There are plenty of 3-wheeler tandems with inline tires that offer stability and swift steering. Take a look at Phil and Teds inline models as well as iCandy Peach and Pear buggies. Most of them can be folded down to the size of a single buggy, which is helpful for those who struggle with storage at home or have to carry it in and out of the car when you travel on public transport.
It's important to remember that a large double buggy will feel heavier and bulkier than a smaller single buggy So make sure it's what you require before you buy. You'll be taking it off and on trains, buses and subways often, so it should be easy to use and manage. You may also need to move it on and off the car seat when taking your children to nursery or school so you'll need to ensure it is able to be maneuvered in small spaces.
From birth, you are an ideal candidate
If you're expecting twins or have a second child after your first, you're likely need to find an appropriate pushchair for the whole family. Double buggies are typically heavier and bulkier, as well as more expensive than single strollers. However, they are more maneuverable in tighter doorways and around obstacles such as curbs. Many double buggies work with piggyback boards (available from the manufacturer or as an add-on). This lets you transport three children at once.
Tandem pushchairs place one child in the front of the other, so they're often a better choice if you have two kids that are close enough in age to function well. But they're not foolproof Side-by-side chairs may punch or kick one another, and children on different heights can squabble over who gets to sit higher. A tandem high-low model could solve this issue by elevating the seat towards the rear, which will prevent your child's older one from sitting on the bottom and not having the best view.
The iCandy Wave is a great option for parents looking for an easy-to-use convertible double buggy that can fit both a newborn in a carrycot, and an older child in the main seat. It features a clever frame which can be expanded in size when you add the second child seat. It folds flat to make it a compact storage. The cushioned seats are comfortable, the straps easy to secure and the buckles are among the best we've seen on any of our tests. The canopies have a generous size and UPF 50+ protection, and a windows that peek out. Both seats are reclined independently.
The only downside to the iCandy tandem is that it is a bit costly. However, a good tandem will last for many years and have the highest resale value, which means that in the end you'll probably recoup a portion of the cost. The iCandy doesn't have the same seating arrangements as our other top choices. It's nevertheless an ideal choice for families who don't want to spend lots of money.