Buying a Tandem Double Buggy
If you have twins or children very similar in age, a tandem double buggy is a great option. They are narrower than side by side buggies, and are ideal for tight spaces like doors, public transport and rough terrain.
Some are able to be converted into travel systems that take two carrycots or car seats for children. However, they are heavier and longer than single pushchairs, and may feel less stable in bumping up the kerbs.
Convertible
If you're looking for convertible stroller that converts from single to double or to add an additional seat to an existing one, there are several options available. The UPPAbaby Vista V2 is a large, gorgeous stroller that can easily be converted from a single stroller to double by adding the rumble seat (available separately). It is more expensive and less maneuverable because the second seat is placed behind the first seat. The Nuna Demi Grow is a similar option with great seating flexibility, however it isn't equipped with storage under the seat when used in doubles mode.
Other options include all-terrain twin buggies and fixed-wheel joggers that can accommodate two children. They are more expensive but they are designed for long-distance trips over rough terrain and have more expensive resales.
Reclining seat recline independently
If you're looking for a double stroller that will accommodate children of different age groups, you'll need one with an independent recliner for both seats. This will allow your older child to relax in the back while the baby is in the bassinet, and vice versa.
It is also important to think about the size of the stroller as this will affect the ease of get through doors and on public transportation. If you have very narrow doorways then it might be worth considering a side-by-side pushchair, such as the Mountain Buggy Duet which has the advantage of having a footprint that is similar to a single buggy but can still use two seats and car seat adaptors.
Tandem buggies tend to be larger than side-by-side models, which makes them more difficult to maneuver up and down kerbs. However they can be able to accommodate more combinations of seats/carrycots/car seats and are a great option for twins and siblings of various ages. These buggies are more expensive than single-to-double buggies but they're well worth it if you intend on keeping it for many years. They'll also keep an impressive amount of value when sold once your children have outgrown it.
Another important feature to look for is whether the seat backs can recline independently from one another as this will let you place your child in the most optimal position to nap or observe. This is essential for children who are in the back seat and wants to rest while the older child prefers to sit up and observe the surroundings.
Some brands have a unique design that allows the back of their vehicles to recline to a position that is nearly flat, which is ideal for newborns. The iCandy Orange, for example is a stadium-style seat that can be reclined in several positions. It also comes with UPF 50+ sun protection and windows that peek out.
Wider than twin buggies
They are perfect for siblings with different age groups, and they allow you to move about without worrying about your children touching. They are usually a little larger with one seat positioned behind the other. The seats can be reclined completely for babies or placed in an upright position for toddlers.
Mountain Buggy Duet is a popular choice. It has the slimmest design that is side-by-side, and a footprint like the footprint of a single stroller. It also comes with an adjustable handle, which makes it easier for parents of various heights to push and a handbrake, which is helpful when climbing difficult terrains. It is suitable from birth and is compatible with a range of car seats and carrycots, which means it's a great travel system.
Another alternative is the iCandy Wave, which has an easy one-click fold and can be used in mono or duo mode. Its innovative frame expands widthways to accommodate a second seat and it can be used with two carrycots or car seats making it a great option for older siblings who want to sit in a group and enjoy the view. It's a little longer than other models, but it's light to steer and comes with soft suspension that is able to handle kerbs.
There are plenty of 3-wheeler tandems with inline tires that offer stability and quick steering. Check out Phil and Teds inline models or iCandy Peach and Pear buggies. They are often folded into the size of one buggie, which is helpful when you have trouble storing it at home or have to carry it in and out of the car on public transport.
Be aware that a double-wide buggy will be more heavy and heavier than one that is compact. Make sure you know what you want before you purchase. You'll need to take it off and on trains, buses and subways regularly so it needs to be easy to operate and manage. You may also need to move it on and off the car seat when taking your children to nursery or school so you'll need to be aware it is able to be maneuvered in tight spaces.
From birth, you're a good candidate
You'll need a stroller for your entire family, whether you're expecting twins or you have another child after you've had your first. Double buggies tend to be slightly heavier, bulkier and cost more than single strollers, however they are also easier to manoeuvre through narrower doors or around obstacles like curbs. Many double buggies work with piggyback boards (available from the manufacturer or as an accessory). This lets you transport three children at once.
Tandem pushchairs put one child in the front of the other, and they're usually a better option when you have two children that are close enough in age to get along well together. But they're not completely safe Siblings in a side-by-side seat can kick or punch each other, and kids who are different heights can argue over who sits higher. A tandem high-low model can solve this problem by elevating the seat to the rear, preventing your older child from being sat on the bottom and not getting any view.
The iCandy Wave is a good alternative for parents looking for a convertible double buggy with a carrycot that can fit both a newborn and an older child. It features an innovative frame that increases in size when you add the second child seat. It also folds flat to make it a compact storage. The padded seats are comfortable, the straps easy to secure and the buckles are among the most impressive we've seen in any of our tests. The seats can be reclined independently and the canopy is big and spacious with UPF 50+ protection as well as windows that can be seen from a distance.
The only drawback of the iCandy is that it's a bit on the expensive side but a high-quality tandem will last for a long time and will retain its resale value. So you'll probably recoup some of the cost in the long run. double pram and pushchair doesn't come with the same seating arrangements as our other top selections. However, it's an excellent choice for families who don't wish to spend lots of cash.