Buying a Tandem Double Buggy
If you have twins or children very similar in age, a tandem double buggie is a fantastic option. They're narrower than side-by-side buggies and ideal for navigating tight spaces, such as doorways, on public transport and rocky terrain.
Some are able to be converted into travel systems that use two carrycots or car seats for children. They are often heavier, longer and less stable than a single pushchair.
Convertible
If you're looking for convertible stroller that converts from single to double or to add another seat to an existing one, there are a variety of options available. The UPPAbaby V2 is a spacious, gorgeous stroller. It can be easily converted from a single to a dual by adding the seating area with a rumble. It is more expensive and less maneuverable due to the fact that the second seat is placed on top of the first seat. The Nuna Demi Grow is a similar option with great seating versatility but does not have storage under the seat when used in doubles mode.
Other options include all-terrain twin buggies as well as fixed-wheel joggers that can accommodate two children. They are more expensive but they are made for long-distance trips over rough terrain and have a higher resale price.
Independent seat recline
If you need a double buggy that is able to transport children of various age groups, then you'll need a buggy that has an recline that is independent for both seats. This will allow your older child to rest while the baby is in the bassinet, and vice versa.
You'll also have 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 doors, it could be worthwhile to consider a side-by-side pushchair like the Mountain Buggy Duet which has the benefit of having a footprint similar to a single buggy, but can still use two seats and car seat adaptors.
Tandem buggies are usually a little longer than side-by-side models and so aren't as easily maneuverable up and down kerbs, however they can be able to accommodate a wider variety of car/car/seat combinations, and are a great option for twins or siblings of various age. These buggies are priced higher than single buggies to double, but they're worth it if you plan on keeping it for many years. They'll also keep a good amount of value if you decide to sell it when your children are old enough to use it.
Another important feature to look for is if the seat backs can recline independently of one another as this will let you place your child in the most optimal position for naps or watching. This is particularly important if you have a young child in the rear seat who may prefer to lay back and sleep while the older child would prefer to sit up and look around their surroundings.
Certain brands come with a unique design for their seats that allows the back seat to completely recline into an almost flat position that is perfect for babies. For example the iCandy Orange has raised stadium-style seating that can recline both the included toddler seat and the add-on RumbleSeat into multiple positions so that your children have a the option of where they want to sit, as well as providing an excellent UPF 50+ canopy that has windows that can be seen from afar.
More spacious than twin buggies
They are ideal for siblings of different ages, and you can get around without worrying about your children touching. They're typically a bit longer too with one seat positioned behind the other, and typically with a fully-flat recline option for babies (or a more 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 comes with an adjustable handle that makes it easier for parents to push and a handbrake, which is helpful on steep hills. It is suitable for use from birth, and it can be combined with a wide range of car seats and carrycots.
Another option is the iCandy Wave, which has a simple one-click to fold and is able to be used in mono or duo mode. The frame's clever design can be expanded widthwise to allow for a second seat and it can be used with two car seats or carrycots so it's an excellent option for older siblings that want to sit together and share the view. double stroller with bassinet 's slightly longer than some other models, yet it's light to steer and comes with soft suspension that can handle the kerbs.
There are many 3-wheeler tandems with inline tires that offer stability and quick steering. Check out Phil and Teds inline models as well as iCandy Peach and Pear buggies. They are often folded down to the size of one buggie which is useful for those who struggle with storage at home or have to carry it in and out of the boot on public transport.
Be aware that a two-wheeled buggy will be more heavy and more bulkier than one that is compact. Make sure you know what you want prior to making a purchase. You'll have to get it on and off subways, buses, and trains frequently, so it must be simple to use and manage. You may also need to move it on and off the car seat when you take your children to school or nursery so you'll need to be aware it is able to be maneuvered within small spaces.
From birth
You'll need a stroller for your entire family, regardless of whether you're expecting twins or you have a second child after having your first. Double buggies are typically heavier and bulkier, as well as more expensive than single strollers. However, they are more maneuverable in tighter doorways, or around obstacles like curbs. Many are also compatible with piggyback ride-along boards (either from the manufacturer or through an additional accessory purchase) so you can transport three children at once.
Tandem pushchairs seat one child in the front of the other, so they're often a better choice when you have two children who are similar in age to be able to live well together. They're not foolproof. Siblings sitting side-by-side can kick or punch each other and children of different heights may fight over who sits higher. This issue can be addressed by a tandem high-low model that raises the seat in the rear. Your child's older will not be seated on the lowest part of the car and won't get much of an eye.
The iCandy Wave is a good alternative for parents looking for a convertible double buggy that includes a carrycot that can fit both the newborn and the older child. It features an innovative frame that increases in size when you add a second child seat. It can also fold flat for compact storage. The cushioned seats, straps and buckles are all of the highest quality we have encountered in our tests. The canopy is large in size and UPF 50+ protection, as well as a the window is peekaboo. Both seats are reclined independently.
The only drawback of the iCandy is that it's a little on the expensive side however, a good tandem will last for a long time and maintain its resale value, so you'll probably recoup some of the cost in the end. The iCandy does not have the same seating options as our other top selections. It's nevertheless an excellent choice for families who don't wish to spend a lot of money.