Buying a Tandem Double Buggy
If you have twins or children very similar in age, a tandem double buggy is a fantastic option. They're smaller than side-by-side buggies, and ideal for maneuvering tight spaces such as entrances, on public transportation and on rough terrain.
Some convert into travel systems to take 2 carrycots or car seats. They are typically heavier, longer and less stable than a single pushchair.
Convertible
If you're looking for convertible single-to-double stroller or want to add an additional seat to an existing one, there's many options to choose from. 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 because the second seat is positioned in front of the first seat. single and double stroller offers a similar option but lacks storage under the seat when it is used as a double stroller.
Other options include twin buggies that have all-terrain wheels, and joggers with fixed wheels that can accommodate two children. They are more expensive but they are made for long trips on rough terrain, and come with higher resale prices.
Reclining the seat independently
If you need a double buggy that is able to transport children of various ages then you're going to need a buggy that has an independent seat recline for both seats. This allows your older child to relax while the baby is sleeping in a bassinet and reverse.
Take into consideration the size of your pushchair, as this will determine how easy it is for you to navigate through doors and on public transport. If your doorways are very 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 accommodate two seats and car seat adaptors.
Tandem buggies are generally longer than side by side models, and therefore are more difficult to maneuver around and down kerbs. However, they can accommodate more combinations of car seats, carrycots and seats and can make a great option for twins and siblings of different age. They can also be more expensive than single-to double buggies, but are worth the investment if you intend to keep it for many years and will retain a decent amount of resale value in the event that you decide to sell it off when your children are out of it.
Another crucial thing to look for is whether the backs of the seats can recline independently from one another because this allows you to place your child in the best position for napping or observation. This is essential for children who are in the back seat and wants to rest while the child in the front prefers to sit up to observe the surroundings.
Certain brands come with a unique design for their seats that allows the back seat to completely recline into an almost flat position which is perfect for babies. The iCandy Orange, for example has a stadium-style seating option that can be reclined to various positions. It also comes with UPF 50+ canopy and peekaboo windows.
Larger than twin buggies
There's no need to have twins to benefit from a larger double buggy. They're great for siblings of different ages and allow you to get around without worrying about your children touching each other. They are usually a little more spacious, with one seat 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 option. It is the slimmest design side-by-side on the market and a footprint comparable to a single stroller. It also has an adjustable handle, making it easier for parents of different heights to push as well as a handbrake that is useful when tackling difficult terrains. It can be used from birth and is compatible with a variety of car seats and carrycots, which means it's a great travel system.
Another alternative is the iCandy Wave, which has the convenience of a single click to fold and is able to be utilized in a duo or mono mode. Its innovative frame can be expanded to accommodate a second seat and it can be used with two carrycots or car seats which makes it an ideal choice for older siblings who want to sit together and share the view. It's a bit larger than other models, but it still feels light and has a comfortable suspension for the kerbs.
There are also a variety of 3-wheeler tandems inline available - check out Phil and Teds inline models or iCandy's Peach and Pear buggies, for example that offer stability and swift steering. They are often folded into one buggy if you have limited space at home or need to transport it from the car to the bus station.
It's worth bearing in mind that a large double buggy will feel bulkier and heavier than a smaller single buggy, so make sure you're getting what you need before you purchase. You'll need to take it off and on subways, trains and buses often, so it should be simple to use and manage. You may also need to juggle it on and off the car seat when taking your children to school or nursery so you'll need to know it is able to be maneuvered in tight spaces.
From birth, you are an ideal candidate
If you're expecting twins or have another child after your first, you're likely need to find a stroller that can accommodate the entire family. Double buggies tend to be larger, heavier and cost more than single strollers. However, they are also easier to maneuver in narrower entrances or around obstacles such as curbs. Many double buggies can be used with piggyback boards (available from the manufacturer or as an add-on). This allows you to carry three children simultaneously.
Tandem pushchairs place 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 function well together. They're not foolproof. Siblings who are sitting side-by-side could punch or kick each other and children with different heights may fight over who sits higher. A tandem high-low model could solve this issue by elevating the seat to the rear, which will prevent your child's older one from being on the bottom and not getting the best view.
The iCandy Wave is a great option for parents looking for an easy-to-use double buggy that converts to accommodate a newborn in a carrycot as well as an older child in the main seat. It features a smart frame that expands in width when you add a second seat and folds down flat for compact storage. The cushioned seats, straps and buckles are all of the highest quality we have seen in our testing. Both seats can recline independently and the canopy is large and generous with UPF 50+ protection as well as windows that peek out.
The only downside to the iCandy tandem is that it's a bit expensive. But a high-quality tandem will last you for years and retain the highest resale value, which means that in the end, you'll likely recoup some of the cost. The iCandy doesn't come with the same seating configurations as our other top selections. It's nevertheless a good option for families that don't want spend lots of cash.