Buying a Double Pushchair For Twins Or Two Siblings Close in Age?
If you're expecting twins or two children close in age, a double pushchair offers you the flexibility you need to accommodate your growing family. Pick from side-byside or tandem models like the Mountain Buggy Duet V3 that's narrow enough to fit through standard doors.
Many models also come with recliners that can be laid flat and can be used with infant car seats. Some models can even be converted to single mode, like with the egg2 Pushchair which is loved for its design and versatility.
Side by Side
The side-by-side buggy is an ideal option for families with twins or siblings of various ages. 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 easy to maneuver and some even have front and rear suspensions to help with traversing kerbs or bumps.
They can cost more than other double buggies however they are more resale price, especially when they're a popular brand. They are also ideal for jogging, and can handle rough terrain. The seats provide plenty of room for your children to sit comfortably. They are available in a wide range of designs and colours to fit your family's style.
Some models come with additional accessories that can help keep your baby comfortable. These may include seat cushions, head supports, and baby blankets. Some of them may include pockets to store snacks and toys. Parents can even get a buggy that has a console for parents to keep the essentials in their reach.
This popular buggy's 2023 version has a new look, a larger sun canopy, and fresh logos. It's a stylish choice for parents who value their image and is compatible with iCandy child car seats. It's also easy to put together, although Kerry found it did take quite a while to get all of the parts out of the boxes. The packaging was well-labeled and clever and made it easy to identify what each component would look similar to.
It's a little heavier than other double buggies, but still quite light for an inline model. It's also incredibly versatile, and can be used with one or two infant car seats. It can even switch from a single seat to a tandem in one click, which is a big benefit for families that are growing.
The UPPAbaby vista v2 is a great double stroller for parents who are busy. It's simple to maneuver and can handle rough terrain. It comes with a huge basket, an independent recline on both seats, and a five-point cushioned harness to keep your children safe.
Tandem
This clever frame can be expanded in width, allowing a second seat to be added without the need for compromise in space. lightweight twin stroller is a great choice 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's got plenty of storage, including a spacious shopping basket. The iCandy Peach has a sleek elegant design that is popular with parents who are a bit glam. The main seat can be adjusted into four different positions and can grow with your child up to 25kg. The addition of a second seat is simple thanks to the quick-release Velcro fasteners, and this model can be used in tandem mode with one child on the other. It's an excellent option when you have a newborn who you don't want disrupt their sleep.
The seats are placed one on top of the other which makes it difficult for toddlers and their parents to be distracted while they're out and out and about. This type of pushchair features a padded seat that can recline completely, making it suitable for infants. A lot of models have a higher sitting position, with a more upright backrest in the back for older children. It's typically possible to arrange them to be facing each other or world facing depending on the design of the pushchair. It's easier to get through narrow doorways with a tandem pushchair, however it can be a challenge to nip up kerbs and stairs with two kids with you.
This versatile pushchair is a great option for families with children with special needs. It's a great solution for kids with disabilities who benefit from having a younger sibling that they can play 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 variety of accessories that let you to customize the buggy to suit your family, such as rain covers and liners.
Lightweight
The best lightweight double pushchairs are nimble and compact, making them easy to use. Some models have air-filled tires to assist them in gliding over rough surfaces. Some models have a one handed fold and shoulder straps that make them more convenient to carry. Consider adding extras like a foot muff, a rain cover or a sunshade.
The Cybex Mios is a lightweight double stroller that has low cost. 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 allow it to be suitable for use from birth. It features a side-byside design and the two seats recline independently, offering an ideal positioning for toddlers and babies. It has a generous UPF 50+ canopy, with peekaboo windows, and the toddler seat is cushioned and has foot and leg rests that can be adjusted.
Another top contender is the UPPAbaby Vista 2. It can accommodate twins, or a baby and a toddler, and is compatible with a variety of car seats. It has a stylish and sleek frame, with large wheels at the back to handle rough terrain. It's ideal for running. The double mode makes it a bit too long, and there's no storage beneath the seat.
When comparing double pushchairs, be aware of the weight of each seat as well as the frame and suspension. The heavier the pushchair, the harder it'll be to push, especially over uneven surfaces. Be sure to look at the dimensions of the folding and if you can remove the seat to make it more compact. Look for features like a one-handed folding, which Kirstie, a home tester at the time, described as "genius" or straps that can be slung over your shoulder.
You can also opt for a tandem double stroller , that places the children one behind the other. It's not as maneuverable as a side-by-side, but it's still a great option for families with multiple children, and may be more suitable for older toddlers. Certain tandems have recliner seats that let children lay down or sit up depending on their mood.
Confortable
Whether you're a parent of twins or have two siblings close in age, having the right double pushchair can make outings significantly simpler. There's a huge choice of comfortable options available that are available. There are a variety of options for families, whether you're seeking a side by side model that can accommodate both a carrycot and an additional seat, or a tandem with an rear and front seat that can be switched.
In addition to buckles, straps with padding and headrests, you should look for seats with multiple recline positions and adjustable Calf rests. Typically, these are controlled via easy-to-use one-handed buttons that are 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 strollers come with a huge UPF50+ sun canopy, magnetic peekaboo windows, and a useful hood extension that shields your child from harmful UV rays.
Convertible Doubles
You can save money by purchasing an infant stroller that can be converted from single mode to dual as your child grows. The egg2, for example, is a stylish choice that can be used with the toddler seat that comes with it or a baby carrier from birth. It even offers a second add-on RumbleSeat for older siblings. Its reclining seats and spacious, comfy carrycots are particularly well-received by home testers, who love how much it can expand with your family.
On the other hand, if you're looking for a low-cost option that will last from birth to toddlerhood, try the iCandy Venus. It comes with a seat and footmuff, but it can be combined with the brand's newborn cocoons (available separately for just PS59 each) to transform it into a twin pram suitable for twins or infants/toddlers. Our labs liked the ease of use to switch between configurations. They also found the directions to be clear and straightforward however it might require some time.
Some double pushchairs permit you to place your children side by side and are generally oriented towards the world. However, there are a few notable exceptions such as the Bugaboo Donkey or Mountain Buggy Duet that can be set up to be front and rear facing (though this can increase the overall chassis width). Kerb popping is generally more straightforward with a tandem, but getting through narrow doors and aisles for shopping can be an issue at times.