Buying a Tandem Double Buggy
If you have twins or children close in age, a tandem double buggie is a great option. They are a bit smaller than side by side buggies, and are perfect for tight spaces like doors, public transport, and rough terrain.
Many convert into travel systems that include two carrycots or car seats. However, they are heavier and longer than single pushchairs, and may feel less stable bumping up the kerbs.
Convertible
If you're looking for a convertible stroller that can be converted from a single to a double or to add an additional seat to an existing one, there's a variety of options available. The UPPAbaby is a large, beautiful stroller. It is easily transformed from a single stroller to a dual by adding a rumble seat. However, it's pricey and less mobile than other double strollers since the second seat is located to the left of the front seat. Nuna Demi Grow is a similar model but lacks storage underneath the seat when it's used as a double stroller.
double pram and pushchair include all-terrain twin buggies, as well as fixed-wheel joggers that can accommodate two children. These tend to be more expensive but they're designed for long trips over rough terrain, and may have more resale value.
Independent recline of the seat
If you're looking for a double buggy that is able to carry children of different ages then you're going to want one that has recline independent for both seats. This will allow your child's older to relax in the back while the baby is in the bassinet, and vice versa.
You'll also need to consider the width of the pushchair as this will affect the ease of traverse doors and public transport. If your doors are narrow, you might want to consider 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 usually smaller than side-byside models and so aren't as easily maneuverable around kerbs but they can accommodate a bigger range of car/car/seat combinations, and are a great option for twins or siblings of various age groups. They are more expensive than single-to-double buggies however they're worth it if you intend on keeping it for many years. They'll also keep some value if sold when your children are old enough to use the buggie.
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 ideal position to nap or observe. This is especially important if you have a younger child in the rear seat who will be inclined to lie down and relax while the more mature child wants to sit up and observe their surroundings.
Certain brands come with an exclusive seat design that allows the back seat to fully 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 several positions. It also comes with UPF 50+ canopy and windows that peek out.
Larger than twin buggies
They are perfect for siblings of different age groups, and they allow you to move about without having to worry about your children touching. They're usually a bit larger too with one seat positioned behind the other and usually with a fully-flat recline option for babies (or a more upright position for toddlers).
Mountain Buggy Duet is a popular option. It is the slimmest design of the two-in-ones on the market and a footprint that is comparable to a single stroller. It has an adjustable handle that makes it easier for parents to push, and a handbrake that is helpful on steep hills. It is suitable to use from birth and it can be combined with a wide range of car seats and carrycots.
The iCandy Wave is another option. It folds in mono or duo mode with just one click. Its clever frame expands widthways to accommodate a second seat and can be used with up to two car seats or carrycots making it a great choice for older siblings who want to sit together and enjoy the view. It's slightly longer than other models, but it isn't heavy and has a soft suspension for kerbs.
There are a variety of 3-wheeler tandems with inline tires that offer stability and quick steering. Take a look at Phil and Teds inline models or iCandy Peach and Pear buggies. They are often folded down to the size of one buggie which is useful if you struggle with storage at home or frequently need to lug it in and out of the boot when you travel on public transport.
It's important to keep in mind that a double-buggy with a wider width will feel bulkier and heavier than a smaller single buggy So make sure you're getting what you need before you purchase. It is likely to be used on buses, trains and subways often, therefore it must be simple to use and manage. You may also need to juggle it on and off the car seat while taking your children to school or nursery so you'll need to be aware it's easy to maneuver within small spaces.
From birth, you are a good candidate
If you're expecting twins, or have a second child after your first, you're likely need to find an appropriate pushchair for the whole family. Double buggies are generally heavier, bulkier, and more expensive than single strollers. However, they are easier to maneuver in tighter doors and around obstacles such as curbs. Many double buggies are compatible 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 for families with two children who are similar in age to get along well together. But they're not completely safe Side-by-side chairs may punch or kick each other, and children who are different heights can argue over who should sit higher. A tandem high-low model can solve this issue by elevating the seat towards the rear, which prevents your child's older one from being on the bottom and not having the best view.
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 has a clever frame which expands in width when you add the second child seat. It can also fold flat for compact storage. The cushioned seats are comfortable, the straps are simple to secure and the buckles are among the most impressive we've seen in any of our tests. You can recline both seats independently and the canopies are big and spacious 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 years and retain a high resale price, so in the end, you'll likely recoup a portion of the cost. It doesn't come with the same range of seating options as some of our other top picks, but the iCandy is a good option for families who don't wish to spend a lot.