Buying a Tandem Double Buggy
A tandem double buggy could be a fantastic option for twins or children who are close in age. They are narrower than side-by-side buggies and are perfect for narrow spaces like doors, public transport and rough terrain.
Some can be converted into travel systems that use two carrycots or child car seats. However, they can be heavier and longer than single pushchairs, and may not be as stable when in bumping up kerbs.
Convertible
Whether you're looking for a convertible single-to-double stroller or want to add another seat to an existing one, there are a variety of options available. The Vista V2 from UPPAbaby is spacious, gorgeous stroller that can easily be converted from a single model to double by adding the rumble seating (available separately). It is more expensive and less maneuverable due to the fact that the second seat is placed in front of the first seat. The Nuna Demi Grow is a comparable model with great seating versatility but isn't equipped with storage under the seat when used in doubles mode.
Other alternatives include all-terrain twin buggies, as well as fixed-wheel joggers that can accommodate two children. They tend to be 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 different age groups, you'll need one with a recliner that is independent for both seats. This allows your child of a higher age to rest in the back while the baby sleeps in the bassinet and the reverse.
Think about the size of your pushchair and consider how easy it is for you to maneuver through doors and public transportation. If you have very narrow doors, it may be worth considering a side-by-side pushchair, such as the Mountain Buggy Duet which has the benefit of having a footprint similar to a single buggy however, it is able to accommodate two seats and car seat adaptors.
Tandem buggies are generally a little longer than side-by-side models, and aren't as easily maneuverable around kerbs but they can accommodate a wider variety of car seat/car seat combinations, and are a great option for twins or siblings of different age groups. These buggies are priced higher than single-to-double buggies but they're well worth it if you plan on keeping it for many years. They also hold a good amount of value when sold once your kids have outgrown the buggie.
Another important feature to look out for is if the backs of the seats can recline independently of each other because this allows you to put your child in the ideal position for napping or observation. This is crucial if your child is in the back seat and would like to take a nap while the more mature child prefers to sit up and observe the surrounding.
Certain brands come with an exclusive seat design that allows the back seat to completely recline into a nearly flat position, which is ideal for newborns. For instance, the iCandy Orange has raised stadium-style seating and can recline the toddler seat that comes with it and the additional RumbleSeat into various positions so that your children have a the option of where they want to sit and also comes with an excellent UPF 50+ canopy that has peekaboo windows.
Wider than twin buggies
They are perfect for siblings with different ages, and you can get around without having to worry about your children touching. They're typically a little longer too with one seat positioned behind the other, and typically with a fully-flat recline option for newborns (or a more upright position for toddlers).
Mountain Buggy Duet is a popular choice. It is the slimmest design that is side-by-side, and a footprint that is like a single stroller. It features an adjustable handle that makes it easier for parents to push and a handbrake, which is helpful on steep hills. It is suitable from birth and is compatible with a variety of car seats and carrycots, which means it makes an excellent travel system.
The iCandy Wave is another option. It can be folded in duo or mono mode with just one click. The frame's clever design expands widthways to accommodate a second seat and can be used with up to two car seats or carrycots which makes it an ideal option for older siblings that want to sit in a group and share the view. It's slightly longer than other models, but it still feels light and has a comfortable suspension for curbs.
There are plenty of 3-wheeler tandems with inline tires that offer stability and swift steering. Take a look at Phil and Teds inline models as well as iCandy Peach and Pear buggies. These can often be folded into a single buggy in case you have a small space at home, or need to transport it from your car to the bus station.
Be aware that a double-wide buggy will be more heavy and more bulkier than one compact buggy. Be sure to know what you want before you purchase. It is likely to be used on trains, buses and subways often, so it must be easy to manage and use. You may also have to juggle it onto and off the car seat when you take your children to school or nursery so you'll need to know it is able to be maneuvered in small spaces.
From birth, you're a good candidate
If you're expecting twins, or have a second child after your first, you're going to require an appropriate pushchair for the whole family. Double buggies tend to be heavier, bulkier, and more expensive than single strollers. However they are much easier to maneuver in tighter doors or around obstacles such as curbs. Many are also compatible with piggyback ride-along boards (either from the manufacturer or as a separate accessory purchase) which means you can carry three children at the same time.
Tandem pushchairs place one child in the front of the other, so they're usually a better option for families with two children who are similar in age to be able to live well. They're not 100% secure. Siblings who are sitting side-by-side could punch or kick each other and children of different heights can fight over who sits higher. This issue can be addressed by a tandem high-low model that raises the seat to the rear. Your child's older will not be seated on the bottom of the car and won't get much of an opportunity to see.
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 and an older child in the main seat. It features a clever frame that can be expanded in width when you add the second seat, and folds flat for compact storage. The padded straps, buckles, and seats are all of the highest quality we have encountered in any of our tests. The canopies have a generous size and UPF 50+ protection, and a the window is peekaboo. double pushchair are reclined independently.
The only drawback to the iCandy is that it's a bit expensive, but a quality tandem will last a long time and maintain its resale value, so you'll probably recoup some of the cost over the long term. The iCandy doesn't come with the same seating configurations as our other top selections. However, it's a good option for families who don't wish to spend lots of money.