Buying a Tandem Double Buggy
If you have twins or children very close in age, a tandem double buggy is a fantastic option. They're a bit smaller than side-byside buggies and ideal for navigating narrow spaces like doorways, on public transport and on rocky terrain.
Some are able to 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 as they bump up 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 several options available. The Vista V2 from UPPAbaby is large, gorgeous stroller that converts easily 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 placed in front of the first seat. Nuna Demi Grow is a similar model, but it lacks storage underneath the seat when used as a double stroller.
Other alternatives include all-terrain twin buggies and fixed-wheel joggers that can accommodate two children. They are generally more expensive, however they're designed for long trips over rough terrain and could have more resale value.
Reclining the seat independently
If you need a double buggy to carry children of different ages, you'll want one that has recline that is independent for both seats. This allows your child of a higher age to rest while the baby is in the bassinet and reverse.
Think about the width of your stroller to determine the ease of 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 comparable to a single buggy however, it is able to accommodate two seats and car seat adaptors.
Tandem buggies are usually a little longer than side-by-side models and so aren't as difficult to maneuver through kerbs and up and down, but they can accommodate a wider range of seat/carrycot/car seat combinations and are a great option for twins or siblings of various ages. They are also more expensive than single to double buggies but they're well worth it if you intend to keep it for a few years. They will also retain an impressive amount of value when sold once your children are old enough to use it.
Another important feature to look for is whether the seat backs are able to recline independently of one another as this will let you place your child in the best position to nap or observe. This is especially important when you have a child younger than in the rear seat, who will prefer to lay back and relax while the more mature child wants to sit and observe their surroundings.
Certain brands have a distinctive design that allows the back seat of their vehicles to recline to a position that is almost flat, perfect for newborns. For instance the iCandy Orange has raised stadium-style seating that can recline both the toddler seat that comes with it as well as the optional RumbleSeat to multiple positions, to give your kids a the option of where they want to sit, as well as providing an excellent UPF 50+ canopy that has windows that peek out.
More spacious than twin buggies
They are great for siblings of different ages, and you can move about without worrying about your children touching. They're typically a little longer too with one seat placed behind the other and offering a fully-flat recline 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 that is like the footprint of a single stroller. It has an adjustable handle that makes it easier for parents to push and a handbrake, which can be useful on hills that are steep. It is suitable for use right from birth, and can be paired with a wide range of car seats and carrycots.
Another alternative is the iCandy Wave, which has an easy one-click fold and is able to be utilized in a duo or mono mode. Its innovative frame can be expanded widthwise to accommodate a second chair and 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. It's a little longer than other models but still feels light to steer and has soft suspension that is able to handle the kerbs.
There are plenty of double stroller with bassinet -wheeler tandems with inline wheels that offer stability and quick steering. Check out Phil and Teds inline models as well as 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 carry it from the car to the bus stop.
Be aware that a two-wheeled buggy will be heavier and bulkier than one that is compact. Make sure you know what you want prior to making a purchase. It will be utilized on buses, trains, and subways frequently therefore it must be simple to operate and use. You might need to manage the car seat while taking your child to school or the nursery.
From birth, you're a good candidate
There will be a need for a pushchair for your entire family regardless of whether you're expecting twins or if you have a child after having your first. double stroller with bassinet are typically larger, heavier and cost more than single strollers, but they can also be easier to manoeuvre in narrower doorways or around obstacles such as curbs. Many are also compatible with piggyback ride-along boards (either from the manufacturer or via an accessory purchase) to allow you to transport three children at the same time.
Tandem pushchairs put one child ahead of the other. They're a good option for children who are close in age and are good friends. They're not completely safe. Siblings sitting side-by-side can punch or kick one another, and children of different heights could argue over who sits higher. A tandem high-low model could solve this problem by elevating the seat at the rear, which will prevent your child's older one from sitting on the bottom and not getting any view.
The iCandy Wave is a great option for parents looking for an easy-to-use convertible double buggy that can accommodate a newborn in a carrycot as well as an older child in the main seat. It features a clever frame which can be expanded in size when you add a second child seat. It can also fold flat for storage that is compact. The seats are cushioned and comfortable, the straps are easy to fasten, and the buckles some of the best we've seen on any of our tests. Both seats can recline independently and the canopy is large and generous with UPF 50+ protection as well as peekaboo windows.
The only drawback of the iCandy is that it's a bit expensive, but a quality tandem will last a long time and will retain its resale value, so you'll probably recoup some of the cost in the end. It doesn't have the same selection of seating options as some of our other top choices however the iCandy is a great choice for families that don't want to shell out a lot of money.