Buying a Double To Single Buggy Pushchair For Twins Or Two Siblings Close in Age?
Whether you're having twins or two children that are close in age, a double pushchair will give the flexibility you need to accommodate your growing family. Choose between tandem models or side-byside configurations such as the Mountain Buggy Duet V3 which is small enough to fit in standard doors.
Many models can be used with a baby car seat and have reclining seats. Some can even convert to single mode, such as with the egg2 Pushchair that's appreciated for its style and versatility.
Side by Side
The side-byside buggy is the most popular choice for families with twins, or siblings of different age. They typically have two fixed seats and one canopy. They're also a bit wider than inline buggys so that both children can see the same thing. They are simple to maneuver and even come with front and back suspensions for better control when going over bumps or kerbs.
While they can cost more than other double buggies, they are likely to have a higher resale value when you purchase an established brand. They are also ideal for jogging and handle rough terrain. The seats provide plenty of space for your kids to sit and stand double stroller comfortably. They are available in a wide range of designs and colours to fit your family's style.
Certain models come with extra accessories that will help to keep your baby in a comfortable position. They can include baby blankets and seats, liners, and head supports. Some of them may include pockets to store toys and snacks. Parents can even get an infant buggy with an adult console to keep important items in one place.
The 2023 version of this popular buggy features a fresh design and a larger sun canopy and fresh logos. It's a stylish option for parents who are image-conscious and compatible with iCandy child car seats. It's easy to assemble although Kerry discovered that it took a while to take the pieces out of their boxes. The packaging was well-labeled and clever, so it was easy to know what each piece would look similar to.
It's a little heavier than other double travel stroller buggies however, it's still light for an inline model. It's also extremely versatile and it can be used with two or one infant car seats. It can also switch from a single to tandem with just one click it's a major bonus for growing families.
The Vista v2 UPPAbaby is a top choice for double strollers, and it's ideal for busy parents. It's incredibly easy to maneuver in tight spaces and can tackle the tough terrain easily. It comes with a huge basket, a recline that is independent on both seats, and a five-point strap that is padded to ensure your children's safety.
Tandem
The clever frame of this pushchair is able to expand widthways, allowing you to add a second seat without compromising on space. This is an excellent option for twins as it can be used with two carrycots or car seat. It's also a great travel system for road trips. It's heavier than some of its rivals and may seem a bit bulky when used in double mode, but it has a good amount of storage space, including a large shopping basket. The iCandy Peach is a favourite among image-conscious parents and boasts an extremely stylish, sleek design. Its reclining seat can be adjusted to four different positions, and will grow with your children up to 25kg. The quick-release Velcro fastenings make it easy to add an additional seat. This model can also be used in tandem mode, placing one child sitting on the top of another. It's an excellent option when you have a newborn who you don't want to disturb in their sleep.
The seat is positioned one ahead of the other in this configuration and it's harder for toddlers to distract each other while you're out and about. This type of pushchair typically features a padded seat that is able to recline completely making it suitable for newborns. Some models have a taller, more upright seat in the back for older children, and it's typically possible to arrange them to be facing each other or world facing according to the model of buggy. With a tandem pushchair it's easier to squeeze through doorways that are narrow, however it might be difficult to negotiate kerbs and stairs with two children.
A fantastic option for special needs families, this versatile pushchair is a great solution for disabled children who benefit from having an older sibling to play with and encourage. It's not inexpensive, but it's constructed to last. There's plenty of storage space to meet your requirements. It comes with a variety of accessories that will allow you to customize the buggy according to your family's requirements for example, rain covers or liners.
Lightweight
The most lightweight double strollers are small easily maneuverable and nimble. They're typically constructed of a sturdy aluminium frame, and some come with air-filled wheels that allow them to slide over even rough surfaces. Some models feature a one handed fold and shoulder straps that make them easier for you to carry. Find additional accessories like a sunshade, rain cover, and foot muff.
If you're looking for a lightweight double pram pushchair buggy with a great price tag then the Cybex Mios is worth considering. It's it's a complete travel system and a lightweight buggy that is suitable from birth with the addition of the carrycot. It has a side-by-side design and both seats recline independently, making it a perfect position for toddlers and infants. It comes with a huge UPF 50+ canopy, peekaboo windows, and a toddler seat that is fully padded and adjustable.
Another option is the UPPAbaby Vista 2. It can be used to carry twins or a baby as well as a toddler, and it is compatible with a variety of car seats. It has a sleek and stylish frame with big back wheels that can withstand rough terrain, and is also suitable for running. The double mode can make it a little long, and there's no storage beneath the seat.
When comparing different double pushchairs, think about the weight of the frame, seat and suspension. The heavier the buggy, the harder it'll be to push, particularly over uneven surfaces. Also, check the dimensions for folding and whether or not it's possible to remove the seats, which makes it more compact. Check for features like a simple one-handed fold which test-run tester Kirstie described as “genius”, and a useful strap to sling over your shoulders.
(Image: https://cdn.freshstore.cloud/offer/images/7007/773/graco-stadium-duo-tandem-double-pushchair-suitable-from-birth-to-approx-3-years-15kgs-car-seat-compatible-with-snugessentials-isize-infant-car-seat-black-grey-fashion-773.jpg)Alternatively, you can opt for a tandem pushchair that places children one behind the other. It's not as easy to maneuver as a side-by-side, but it's still a viable alternative for families of all sizes and could be more suitable for older toddlers. There are also tandems that have reclining seats which give children the flexibility to lie down or sit down based on their mood and needs.
Comfortable
A double pushchair that is well-designed can help you get out more easily no matter if you have twins or two children with similar ages. Thankfully, there's a wide selection of comfortable options that are available. There are a variety of options for families, no matter if you're searching for a side-by- side model that can hold both a carrycot and a seat, or a tandem with a front and rear seat that can be swapped.
In addition to buckles, straps with padding and headrests, look for seats with multiple recline positions and adjustable calf rests. These are typically operated by a single-handed button located at the rear of the seat. (Though in our tests, it can be fiddly for small-handed parents). Some of the best double strollers also have a large UPF50+ sun canopy, a magnetic peekaboo windows, and a useful hood extension that protects your child from harmful UV rays.
Convertible Doubles
You can save money by investing in an infant stroller that can be converted from single mode to dual as your child develops. The egg2, as an example, is a chic option that can be used from birth with the included baby or toddler carrier and even comes with a RumbleSeat additional option for older siblings. Its reclining seats and large, comfy carrycots are particularly loved by testers at home who love how much it can expand with your family.
If you're looking for a budget-friendly option that can last into 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 for just PS59 each) to turn it into a twin pram that is suitable for twins or babies/toddlers. Our labs loved the ease of use to switch between the different configurations. They also found the directions to be clear and straightforward however it could take some time to master.
Some double pushchairs allow you to sit with your children in a row and are generally oriented towards the world, but there are some exceptions like the Bugaboo Donkey and Mountain Buggy Duet that can be set up to allow both front and parent facing seating (though this can result in an increase in the overall size of the chassis). Tandems are generally more maneuverable through kerbs, but they can be difficult to navigate through narrow doorways and aisles.