Buying a Tandem Double Buggy
A tandem double buggy could be a fantastic option for twins or children who are close in age. They're narrower than side-by-side buggies and ideal for navigating tight spaces such as entrances, on public transportation and on rocky terrain.
Some are able to be converted into travel systems that can take two carrycots or child car seats. They can be heavier, longer and less stable than a single pushchair.
Convertible
If you're looking for convertible single-to-double stroller or want to add an additional seat to an existing one, there's several options available. The UPPAbaby V2 is a spacious, gorgeous stroller. It can be easily converted from a single to a dual by adding the seating area with a rumble. However, it's expensive and less maneuverable than other dual strollers because the 2nd seat is located in front of the front seat. The Nuna Demi Grow is a comparable model with great seating versatility but does not have storage under the seat when used in doubles mode.
Other options include all-terrain twin buggies, as well as fixed-wheel joggers that can hold two children. They tend to be more expensive but they're designed for long trips over rough terrain, and may have a higher resale value.
Reclining seat recline independently
If you require a double buggy that is able to transport children of various ages, you'll need a buggy that has an independent seat recline for both seats. This will allow your child's older to rest in the back while the baby is in the bassinet, and the reverse.
You'll also need to think about the size of the stroller as this will impact the ease of traverse doors and public transport. If pushchair twin are very narrow, you might be considering a side by side pushchair such as the Mountain Buggy Duet. It has a footprint that is similar to a single stroller however can still fit two seats and car seat adaptors.
Tandem buggies are generally slightly longer than side-by-side models and therefore aren't difficult to maneuver through kerbs and up and down, however they can be able to accommodate a wider range of car seat/car seat combinations, making them a good option for twins or siblings of different ages. These buggies are more expensive than single to double buggies but they're well worth it if you plan to keep it for a few years. They will also retain some value if sold when your children have outgrown it.
Another important feature to look for is if the backs of the seats can recline independently of each other since this will allow you to put your child in the ideal position for naps or watching. This is crucial if your child is in the back seat and wishes to rest while the more mature child prefers to sit and observe the surrounding.
Some brands have a unique design that allows the back seat of their vehicles to recline into a position that is almost flat, ideal for infants. The iCandy Orange, for example has a stadium-style seating option that can be reclined in several positions. It also has UPF 50+ sun protection and peekaboo windows.
Larger than twin buggies
There's no need to have twins to benefit from a bigger double buggy - they're ideal for siblings of various age groups and let you get around without having to worry about your children touching. They're typically a little longer too with one seat positioned behind the other, and typically with a fully-flat recline option for newborns (or a more upright position for toddlers).
A popular choice is the Mountain Buggy Duet, which is the tiniest side-by-side model available and features an identical footprint to one buggy. It features an adjustable handle that makes it easier for parents to push, and a handbrake that is useful on steep hills. It is suitable for use right from birth, and can be used with a range of car seats and carrycots.
The iCandy Wave is another option. It can be folded in either mono or duo mode with just one click. The clever frame expands to accommodate the second chair and can be used with up to two car seats or carrycots. This makes it an ideal option for older siblings who would like to sit together. It's a bit bigger than the other models, but it feels light and has soft suspension for the kerbs.
There are a lot of 3-wheeler tandems inline available Check out Phil and Teds inline models or iCandy's Peach and Pear buggies, for example - which provide stability and swift steering. These can often be folded into a single buggy if you have limited space at home, or need to carry it from the car to the bus stop.
Be aware that a double-wide buggy is more heavy and more bulkier than one that is compact. Be sure you know what you want before you purchase. It is likely to be used on buses, trains and subways often, so it should be easy to operate and use. You might need to manage the car seat on and off when you take your child to school or nursery.
Suitable from birth
Whether you're expecting twins or have a second child after your first, you're going to require an appropriate pushchair for the entire family. Double buggies are generally heavier, bulkier, and more expensive than single strollers. However they are also more maneuverable in narrower doorways and around obstacles such as curbs. Many are also compatible with piggyback ride-along boards (either from the manufacturer or as a separate accessory purchase) so you can transport three children at the same time.
Tandem pushchairs put one child ahead of the other. They're a great option if your children are similar in age and are able to get along. They're not 100% secure. Siblings seated side-by-side may punch or kick each other and children of different heights could argue over who sits higher. A tandem high-low model is able to solve this issue by elevating the seat towards the rear, preventing your child's older one from being sat on the bottom and not getting much of a view.
The iCandy Wave is a great alternative for parents who want an easy-to-use double buggy that converts to fit a newborn into a carrycot and an older child in the main seat. It features a smart frame that expands widthways when you add a second seat. It folds flat for compact storage. The padded straps, buckles, and seats are all of the highest quality we have encountered in our testing. The seats can be reclined independently, and the canopies are large and generous with UPF 50+ protection and windows that peek out.
The only downside to the iCandy tandem is that it is a bit costly. But a high-quality tandem will last for years and retain an attractive resale value so at the end of the day you'll probably recoup a portion of the cost. It also doesn't offer the same range of seating options as others of our top choices however, the iCandy is a great choice for families who don't wish to shell out a lot of money.