Buying a Tandem Double Buggy
If you have twins or children similar in age, a tandem double buggie is a fantastic option. They're a bit smaller than side-byside buggies, and ideal for maneuvering tight spaces such as entrances, on public transportation and rocky terrain.
Many transform into travel systems that take 2 carrycots or car seats. They can be heavier, longer and less stable than a single pushchair.
Convertible
If you're looking for convertible single-to-double stroller or want to add a second seat to an existing one, there's a variety of options available. The Vista V2 from UPPAbaby is a big, beautiful stroller that converts easily from a single stroller to a double by adding the rumble seating (available separately). It's costly and less mobile than other double strollers because the 2nd seat is located in front of the front seat. Nuna Demi Grow provides a similar choice however, it doesn't have storage underneath the seat when used as a double stroller.
Other alternatives include all-terrain twin buggies, as well as fixed-wheel joggers that can hold two children. They tend to be more expensive, however they're designed to last longer on rough terrain and can have a higher resale value.
Reclining seat recline independently
If you want a double stroller which can accommodate children of different age groups, you'll require one with a recliner that is independent for both seats. This will allow your child's older to relax in the back while the baby sleeps in the bassinet and reverse.
You'll also have to consider the width of the pushchair, as this will affect how easy it is to traverse doors and public transport. If you have very narrow doors, it may be worthwhile to consider 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 can accommodate two seats and car seat adaptors.
Tandem buggies tend to be larger than side-by-side models, and therefore are more difficult to maneuver around and down kerbs. However they can be able to accommodate more combinations of car seats, carrycots and seats and can make the perfect choice for twins and siblings of different ages. These buggies are priced higher than single-to-double buggies, but they're worth the cost if you plan on keeping it for many years. They'll also keep a good amount of value when sold once your children are old enough to use the buggie.
This feature allows you to place your child in an ideal position for naps and observation. This is especially important when you have a young child in the rear seat who may be inclined to lie down and relax while the older child wants to sit and observe their surroundings.
Some brands have a unique design that allows the back seat of their vehicles to recline fully into a position that is almost flat, ideal for infants. For example the iCandy Orange has raised stadium-style seating and can recline both the toddler seat that comes with it and the additional RumbleSeat into multiple positions so your kids can have the option of deciding where to sit as well as providing an excellent UPF 50+ canopy with windows that can be seen from afar.
Wider than twin buggies
You don't need to have twins to benefit from a larger double buggy. They're perfect for siblings of various age groups. They allow you to move around without worrying about your children touching each other. They're typically a little longer too, with one seat sitting behind the other, and typically providing a flat recline for infants (or a more upright position for toddlers).
Mountain Buggy Duet is a popular choice. It is the tiniest design of the two-in-ones on the market 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 is useful on steep hills. 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.
The iCandy Wave is another option. It folds in mono or duo mode with just one click. cheap double buggy can be expanded to accommodate a second chair and it can be used with two car seats or carrycots which makes it an ideal option for older siblings that want to sit in a group and enjoy the view. It's a little larger than other models, but it feels light and has soft suspension for kerbs.
There are also plenty of 3-wheeler inline tandems that are available - check out Phil and Teds' inline models or iCandy's Peach and Pear buggies, for instance that offer stability and swift steering. Often these can be folded down to the size of one buggy which is useful if you struggle with storage at home or frequently need to transport it into and out of your car when you travel on public transportation.
Be aware that a double wide buggy is heavier and bulkier than a single compact buggy. Be sure you know what you want before you buy. You'll have to get it off and on subways, trains and buses often, so it should be easy to use and manage. You might also have to juggle it on and off the car seat while taking your children to school or nursery so you'll need to know it is able to be maneuvered in tight spaces.
The best time to start is when you are born.
If you're expecting twins or have another child after your first, you're likely to need to find an appropriate pushchair for the entire family. Double buggies tend to be larger, heavier and more expensive than single strollers. However, they are also more maneuverable in narrower doorways or around obstacles such as curbs. They are also compatible with piggyback ride-along boards (either from the manufacturer or through an accessory purchase) to allow you to transport three children at once.
Tandem pushchairs place one child in front the other. They are a good option if your children are of similar ages and are good friends. But they're not completely safe Side-by-side chairs could kick or punch each other, and kids who are different heights can argue over who gets to sit higher. This problem can be solved by a tandem high-low model that elevates the seat at the rear. Your older child will not be seated on the lower part of the car, and won't have much of an opportunity to see.
The iCandy Wave is a great alternative for parents who want an easy-to-use double buggy that converts to fit both 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 the second seat and folds down flat to make it a compact storage. The padded seats are comfortable, the straps 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 canopies are large and generous with UPF 50+ protection as well as windows that can be seen from a distance.
The only downside of the iCandy is that it's expensive but a high-quality tandem will last a long time and retain its resale value, which means you'll probably get back some of the cost over the long term. The iCandy does not have the same seating options as our other top selections. However, it's a good option for families who don't wish to spend a lot of money.