Buying a Tandem Double Buggy
A tandem double buggy can be a great option when you have twins or children who are close in age. They're a bit smaller than side-byside buggies, and ideal for maneuvering narrow spaces like doors, on public transport and on rough terrain.
Some can be converted into travel systems that can take two carrycots or car seats for children. They are often heavier, longer and less stable than a single pushchair.
Convertible
There are a variety of options for adding a second seat or converting a single stroller to a double. The UPPAbaby V2 is a spacious, gorgeous stroller. It is easily changed from a single to a double by adding the rumble seat. However, it's expensive and less maneuverable than other dual strollers due to the fact that the second seat is located to the left of the front seat. Nuna Demi Grow offers a similar option however, it doesn't have storage underneath the seat when used as a double stroller.
Other options include twin buggies with all-terrain wheels and joggers with fixed wheels that can accommodate two kids. They are more expensive, but they are designed to last longer on rough terrain and come with more expensive resales.
Reclining seat recline independently
If you're looking for a double stroller that will accommodate children of different ages, you will need one with independent seat recliner for both seats. This will allow your child's older to relax in the back while the baby is in the bassinet and reverse.
Consider the size of your pushchair and consider the ease of you to maneuver through doors and public transportation. If you have narrow doors, it could 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 however it can accommodate two seats and car seat adaptors.
Tandem buggies are typically longer than side by side models, and therefore are more difficult to maneuver up and down kerbs. However they can be able to accommodate more combinations of car seats, carrycots and seats and can make the perfect choice for twins and siblings of different age groups. They are priced higher than single-to-double buggies however they're worth it if you plan to keep it for a number of years. They'll also keep a good amount of value if sold when your kids have outgrown it.
This feature will allow you to put your child in the most comfortable position for naps or observation. This is especially important if you have a child younger than in the rear seat who may want to lie back and sleep while the more mature child wants to sit and observe their surroundings.
Certain brands come with an exclusive seat design that allows the back seat to fully recline to an almost flat position that is perfect for infants. The iCandy Orange, for example has a stadium-style seating option that can be reclined into several positions. It also comes with a UPF 50+ canopy and peekaboo windows.
Larger than twin buggies
You don't need to have twins in order to benefit from a wider double buggy - they're ideal for siblings of different age groups and let you move around without having to worry about your children touching. They're typically a little larger too with one seat placed behind the other and with a fully-flat recline option for babies (or an upright position for toddlers).
Mountain Buggy Duet is a popular option. It is the tiniest design that is side-by-side, and a footprint comparable to one stroller. It also has an adjustable handle, which makes it easier for parents of different heights to push as well as a handbrake, which is useful when tackling steep hills. It is suitable to use from birth and can be used with a variety of car seats and carrycots.
The iCandy Wave is another option. It folds in either mono or duo mode with just one click. Its clever frame can be expanded to accommodate a second seat and can be used with up to two carrycots or car seats so it's an excellent option for older siblings who want to sit in a group and enjoy the view. It's slightly longer than other models, but it still feels light and has soft suspension for curbs.
There are many 3-wheeler tandems that have inline wheels that offer stability and quick steering. Check out Phil and Teds inline models or iCandy Peach and Pear buggies. They are often 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 will be heavier and more bulkier than a single compact buggy. Be sure you know what you want before you purchase. It is likely to be used on buses, trains and subways frequently, therefore it must be simple to manage and use. It is possible that you will need to move the car seat on and off while taking your child to school or the nursery.
From birth, you're a suitable candidate
There will be a need for a pushchair for the whole family, whether you're expecting twins, or you have another child after having your first. Double buggies are typically a bit heavier, bulkier and cost more than single strollers, but they can also be easier to maneuver in narrower doorways or around obstacles such as curbs. Many double buggies can be used with piggyback boards (available from the manufacturer or as an accessory). This allows you to transport three children simultaneously.
Tandem pushchairs place one child in the front of the other, so they're generally a better option when you have two children that are close enough in age to be able to live well. They're not completely safe. Siblings seated side-by-side may punch or kick one another and children with different heights can fight over who sits taller. This problem can be solved by a tandem high-low design that elevates the seat at the back. Your child's older will not be sitting at the bottom of the car and won't get much of an eye.
The iCandy Wave is a good option for parents who are looking for a convertible double buggy that includes a carrycot that is able to accommodate both a newborn and an older child. double travel stroller features a clever frame that expands widthways when you add a second seat and folds down flat to make it a compact storage. The seats are cushioned and comfortable, the straps are simple to secure and the buckles are among the best we've seen on any of our tests. Both seats can recline independently, and the canopies are spacious and large with UPF 50+ protection and windows that can be seen from a distance.
The only drawback to the iCandy tandem is that it's a bit costly. However, a quality tandem will last for a long time and will have the highest resale value, which means that in the end you'll probably recoup some of the cost. The iCandy does not have the same seating options as our other top choices. However, it's an excellent choice for families that don't want spend a lot of money.