Buying a Tandem Double Buggy
If you have twins or children very close in age, a tandem double buggie is a great choice. They're smaller than side-by-side buggies, and ideal for maneuvering narrow spaces like entrances, on public transportation and rocky terrain.
Some can be converted to travel systems that take two carrycots or car seats for children. However, they can be heavier and longer than single pushchairs and may feel less stable bumping up the kerbs.
Convertible
If you're looking for a convertible single-to-double stroller or want to add a second seat to an existing one, there's a variety of options available. The Vista V2 from UPPAbaby is big, beautiful stroller that can easily be converted from a single model to double by adding the rumble seat (available separately). It is more expensive and less maneuverable since the second seat is positioned on top of the first seat. The Nuna Demi Grow is a comparable model with great seating flexibility, however it lacks under-seat storage when used in doubles mode.
Other options include twin buggies with all-terrain wheels, and joggers with fixed wheels that can hold two children. They tend to be more expensive, however they're designed for long-distance trips over rough terrain, and may have more resale value.
Independent seat recline
If you want a double stroller which can accommodate children of various ages, you will need one with independent seat recliner for both seats. This allows your child of a higher age to rest while the baby is in a bassinet, and the reverse is true.
You'll also have to think about the size of the pushchair as it will impact the ease of traverse doors and public transport. If you have extremely narrow doorways then it might be a good idea to consider a side-byside pushchair like the Mountain Buggy Duet which has the benefit of having a footprint comparable to a single buggy, but can still use two seats and car seat adaptors.
Tandem buggies are typically larger than side-by-side models, making them more difficult to maneuver up and down kerbs. However, they can accommodate more combinations of car seats/car seats/seats and can make a great option for twins and siblings of various age groups. These buggies are priced higher than single to double buggies however they're worth it if you plan on keeping it for many years. They also hold some value if sold when your children have outgrown it.
This feature allows you to place your child in the most comfortable position for naps or observation. This is particularly important if you have a young child in the rear seat who may prefer to lay back and relax while the more mature child wants to sit and observe their surroundings.
Certain brands come with a unique seat design which allows the back seat to completely recline into a nearly flat position, which is ideal for infants. The iCandy Orange, for example has a stadium-style seating option that can be reclined to multiple positions. It also comes with a UPF 50+ canopy and windows that peek out.
More spacious than twin buggies
They are perfect for siblings of different ages, and you can get around without worrying about your children touching. They're usually a bit longer too with one seat placed behind the other and with a fully-flat recline option for newborns (or an upright position for toddlers).
A popular choice is the Mountain Buggy Duet, which has the slimmest side-byside design available and features a footprint similar to one buggy. It also has an adjustable handle, which makes it easier for parents of various heights to push as well as a handbrake that can be useful when you have to climb difficult hills. It is suitable from birth and is compatible with a variety of car seats and carrycots. This means it makes an excellent travel system.
The iCandy Wave is another option. It folds in duo or mono mode in a single click. The frame's clever design expands to accommodate a second chair and can be used to accommodate up to two car seats or carrycots. This makes it a fantastic choice for older siblings that wish to sit together. It's a bit bigger than the other models, but it feels light and has a comfortable suspension for the kerbs.
There are plenty of 3-wheeler tandems that have inline wheels that offer stability and swift steering. Check out Phil and Teds inline models as well as iCandy Peach and Pear buggies. These can often be folded into one buggy in case you have a small space at home, or need to carry it from the car to the bus.
compact double buggy pushchairsandprams.uk to remember that a wide double buggy will feel heavier and bulkier than a compact single buggy Make sure that it's what you need before you buy. It is likely to be used on trains, buses and subways often, therefore it must be simple to manage and use. You may also have to juggle it onto and off the car seat while taking your children to school or nursery so you'll need to be aware it can be easily manoeuvred within small spaces.
Suitable from birth
If you're expecting twins, or have a second child after your first, you're likely to need to find a stroller that can accommodate the whole family. Double buggies are generally heavier and bulkier, as well as more expensive than single strollers. However they are much more maneuverable in narrower doorways or around obstacles such as curbs. Many double buggies are compatible with piggyback boards (available from the manufacturer or as an accessory). This allows you to carry three children at once.
Tandem pushchairs seat one child in front of the other, and they're usually a better option when you have two children who are similar in age to function well together. But they're not completely safe Siblings in a side-by-side seat may punch or kick one another, and children with different heights may argue over who gets to sit higher. A tandem high-low model can solve this issue by elevating the seat towards the rear, preventing your child's older one from being on the bottom and not getting any view.
The iCandy Wave is a great option for parents looking for an easy-to-use convertible double buggy that can accommodate 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 can also fold flat for storage that is compact. The padded seats are comfortable, the straps easy to secure and the buckles some of the most comfortable we've seen on any of our tests. Both seats can recline independently, and the canopies are big and spacious with UPF 50+ protection and windows that peek out.
The only drawback of the iCandy is that it's a little expensive, but a quality tandem will last for a long time and maintain its resale value. So you'll likely recoup some of the cost in the long run. The iCandy doesn't have the same seating arrangements as our other top choices. However, it's a good option for families who don't wish to spend much money.