Buying a Tandem Double Buggy
A tandem double buggy could be a fantastic option for twins or children who are very close in age. They are smaller than side by side buggies, and are great for tight spaces like doors, public transport, and rocky terrain.
Many convert into travel systems that include two carrycots or car seats. They are typically 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 a second seat to an existing one, there are a variety of options available. The Vista V2 from UPPAbaby is a big, beautiful stroller that easily converts from a single model to double by adding the rumble seat (available separately). It is more expensive and less maneuverable since the second seat is positioned behind the first seat. The Nuna Demi Grow is a comparable model with great seating versatility but does not have storage under the seat when used in doubles mode.
Other alternatives include all-terrain twin buggies as well as fixed-wheel joggers which can be used to accommodate two children. They are generally more expensive but they're designed to last longer on rough terrain and can have greater resales value.
Independent recline of the seat
If you're looking for a double stroller which can accommodate children of various age groups, you'll need one with an independent recliner for both seats. This will allow your older child to rest while the baby is in a bassinet and reverse.
Think about the size of your pushchair to determine the ease of you to navigate through doors and on public transportation. If your doors are narrow, you may be considering a side by side pushchair, such as the Mountain Buggy Duet. It has a footprint that is similar to a single stroller however can still fit two seats and car seat adaptors.
Tandem buggies are generally larger than side-by-side models, making them more difficult to maneuver up and down kerbs. However they can be able to accommodate more combinations of seats/carrycots/car seats and can make the perfect choice for twins and siblings of different age groups. They are priced higher than single-to-double buggies, but they're worth it if you intend on keeping it for many years. They'll also keep an impressive amount of value if you decide to sell it when your kids have outgrown it.
Another crucial thing to look out for is if the seat backs can recline independently of one another as this will let you put your child in the most optimal position for naps or watching. This is important when your child is in the back seat and wants to nap while the older child prefers to sit and observe the surrounding.
Certain brands come with a unique seat design which allows the back seat to completely recline to an almost flat position, which is ideal for newborns. The iCandy Orange, for example has a stadium-style seating option that can be reclined in various positions. It also comes with UPF 50+ canopy and peekaboo windows.
Wider than twin buggies
They are ideal for siblings with different ages, and you can get around without worrying about your children touching. They're typically a bit longer too with one seat placed behind the other, and typically with a fully-flat recline option for newborns (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 similar to a single stroller. It also features an adjustable handle, making it easy for parents of different heights to push as well as a handbrake, which is helpful when climbing difficult hills. It can be used from birth and is compatible with a variety of car seats and carrycots, meaning it's a great travel system.
Another option is the iCandy Wave, which has an easy one-click fold and can be used in duo or mono mode. The frame's clever design expands widthways to accommodate a second chair and can be used with two carrycots or car seats which makes it an ideal choice for older siblings who wish to sit together and enjoy the view. It's slightly longer than some other models, yet it's light to steer and comes with soft suspension that can handle kerbs.
There are a variety 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 can be folded into a single buggy if you are limited in space at home or you need to transport it from your car to the bus stop.
Be aware that a double wide buggy is more heavy and heavier than one compact buggy. Make sure you know what you want before you buy. It is likely to be used on buses, trains and subways frequently, so it should be easy to manage and use. You might also have 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 can be easily manoeuvred in tight spaces.
From your birth, you are an ideal 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 heavier and bulkier, as well as more expensive than single strollers. However they are also more maneuverable in tighter doors or around obstacles such as curbs. Many are also compatible with piggyback ride-along boards (either from the manufacturer or through a separate accessory purchase) so you can transport three children at a time.
Tandem pushchairs seat one child in front of the other, and they're generally a better option if you have two kids that are close enough in age to be able to live well. But they're not completely safe: Siblings in side-by-side seats may punch or kick each other, and kids on different heights can squabble over who sits higher. This issue can be resolved by a tandem high-low model that raises the seat at the rear. Your older child will not be sitting at the bottom of the car and won't be able to get an opportunity to see.
The iCandy Wave is a great choice for parents looking for an easy-to-use double buggy that converts to accommodate a newborn in a carrycot, and an older child in the main seat. It features a clever frame that expands widthways when you add the second seat, and folds flat to make it a compact storage. The seats are cushioned and comfortable, the straps are simple to secure and the buckles some of the most impressive we've seen in any of our tests. The canopies have a generous size with UPF 50+ protection, and a the window is peekaboo. Both seats can be reclined independently.
The only drawback to the iCandy tandem is that it is a bit costly. However, a quality tandem will last you for many years and have an attractive resale value which means that in the end you'll probably recoup some of the cost. It also doesn't offer the same variety of seating options as others of our top picks however the iCandy is a great choice for families who don't want to shell out a lot of money.