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 a bit smaller than side-byside buggies and ideal for navigating tight spaces such as doorways, on public transport and rocky terrain.
Many transform into travel systems that take 2 carrycots or car seats. They can be heavier, longer and less stable than a single pushchair.
Convertible
If you're looking for a convertible single-to-double stroller or want to add another seat to an existing one, there are a variety of options available. The Vista V2 from UPPAbaby is a spacious, gorgeous stroller that easily converts from a single model to double by adding the rumble seating (available separately). It is more expensive and less maneuverable due to the fact that the second seat is located in front 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 that have all-terrain wheels, and joggers with fixed wheels that can be used to carry two kids. These are more expensive, but they are made for long trips on rough terrain and have higher resale prices.
Independent seat recline
If you're looking for a double stroller that will accommodate children of various age groups, you'll require one with an independent recliner for both seats. This allows your older child to relax while the baby is in a bassinet and vice versa.
You'll also have to think about the size of the pushchair, as it will impact the ease of navigate through doors and on public transport. If your doorways are very narrow, you may want to consider a side-by-side pushchair such as the Mountain Buggy Duet. It has a footprint similar to a single stroller however it can accommodate two seats and car seat adaptors.
Tandem buggies are generally slightly longer than side-by-side models and so aren't as easily maneuverable around kerbs however they can be able to accommodate a bigger range of seat/carrycot/car seat combinations so can be a good option for twins or siblings of different ages. These buggies are more expensive than single buggies to double but they're well worth it if you intend to keep it for a few years. They will also retain some value when sold once your kids have outgrown the buggie.
Another crucial thing to look out for is if the seat backs can recline independently of one another because this allows you to place your child in the ideal position for napping or observation. This is crucial when your child is in the back seat and would like to take a nap while the older child prefers to sit up to observe the surrounding.
Certain brands have a distinctive design that allows the back of their vehicles to fully recline to a position that is almost flat, ideal for infants. The iCandy Orange, for example has a stadium-style seating option that can be reclined to several positions. It also comes with UPF 50+ canopy and peekaboo windows.
Wider than twin buggies
There's no need to have twins to benefit from a wider double buggy. They're perfect for siblings of different ages and allow you to move around without worrying about your children touching. They're usually a bit larger too with one seat placed behind the other and usually providing a flat recline for infants (or a more upright position for toddlers).
A popular option is the Mountain Buggy Duet, which has the slimmest side-byside design on the market and has the same footprint as a single buggy. double seat stroller comes with an adjustable handle that makes it easier for parents to push, and a handbrake which can be useful on hills that are steep. It can be used from birth and is compatible with a variety of car seats and carrycots, which means it makes an excellent travel system.
Another alternative is the iCandy Wave, which has the convenience of a single click to fold and can be used in duo or mono mode. The clever frame expands in width to accommodate a second chair and can be used with up to two car seats or carrycots. This makes it an ideal option for older siblings who wish to sit together. It's a bit longer than other models, yet it's easy to steer and has soft suspension that is able to handle kerbs.
There are also plenty of 3-wheeler tandems inline available such as Phil and Teds inline models or iCandy's Peach and Pear buggies, for instance that provide stability and quick steering. They are often folded into a single buggy if you are limited in space at home or you need to carry it from the car to the bus.
It's important to keep in mind that a large double buggy will feel bulkier and heavier than a single buggy that is smaller Make sure that you're getting what you need before purchasing. You'll need to take it off and on subways, trains and buses often, so it should be easy to use and manage. You might also have to juggle it onto and off the car seat when you take your children to nursery or school so you'll need to be aware it can be easily manoeuvred in tight spaces.
From your birth, you are a good candidate
Whether you're expecting twins or have a second child after your first, you're likely to require a stroller that can accommodate the whole family. Double buggies are typically heavier and bulkier as well as more expensive than single strollers. However they are also more maneuverable in tighter doorways, or around obstacles like curbs. Many are also compatible with piggyback ride-along boards (either from the manufacturer or via a separate accessory purchase) so you can transport three children at the same time.
Tandem pushchairs place one child in front the other. They're a good option if your children are of similar ages and are good friends. They're not completely safe. Siblings seated side-by-side may kick or punch each other, and children of different heights can fight over who sits higher. This issue can be resolved by a tandem high-low design that elevates the seat to the back. Your child's older isn't seated at the lowest part of the car and won't be able to get an opportunity to see.
The iCandy Wave is a good choice for parents looking for a convertible double buggy with a carrycot that can fit both the newborn and the older child. It has an intelligent frame that expands in width when you add the second child seat. It can also fold flat to make it a compact storage. The padded seats are comfortable, the straps are simple to fasten, and the buckles are among the most comfortable we've seen on any of our tests. The canopy is large in size, UPF 50+ protection, and a the window is peekaboo. Both seats can be reclined independently.
The only drawback to the iCandy is that it's a bit on the expensive side however, a good tandem will last for years and maintain its resale value, so you'll probably recoup some of the cost in the long run. It also doesn't offer the same variety of seating configurations that others of our top picks, but the iCandy is a great choice for families who don't wish to shell out a lot of money.