Buying a Tandem Double Buggy
If you have twins or children very similar in age, a tandem double buggy is a great option. They're a bit smaller than side-byside buggies and ideal for navigating narrow spaces like doorways, on public transport and on rough 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 feel less stable bumping up the kerbs.
Convertible
If you're looking for a convertible single-to-double stroller or want 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 stroller to double by adding the rumble seat (available separately). However, it's expensive and less maneuverable than other dual strollers due to the fact that the second seat is placed to the left of the front seat. Nuna Demi Grow offers a similar option however, it doesn't have storage under the seat when it's used as a double stroller.
Other options include twin buggies that have all-terrain wheels, and joggers with fixed wheels that can hold two kids. They are generally more expensive but they're designed to last longer on rough terrain, and may have greater resales value.
Independent seat recline
If you require a double buggy that is able to carry children of different age groups, then you'll want one that has recline independent for both seats. This allows your child of a higher age to be able to relax while your baby is in the bassinet and reverse.
Consider the width of your pushchair and consider how easy it is for you to get through doors and on public transportation. If you have very narrow doors, it could 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 generally are smaller than side-byside models and so aren't as easily maneuverable up and down kerbs, however they can be able to accommodate a wider variety of car/car/seat combinations, so can be a good option for twins or siblings of different ages. They are also more expensive than single to double buggies but they're well worth it if you intend on keeping it for many years. They will also retain a good amount of value if sold when your kids have outgrown it.
This feature will allow you to put your child in an ideal position for naps and observation. This is especially important when you have a younger child in the rear seat, who will prefer to lay back and relax while the more mature child wants to sit up and observe their surroundings.
Some brands feature an exclusive seat design that allows the back seat to fully recline into an almost flat position, which is ideal for newborns. For example, the iCandy Orange has raised stadium-style seating that can recline both the toddler seat that comes with it and the add-on RumbleSeat to multiple positions, so that your children have a the option of where they want they will sit, as well as providing an excellent UPF 50+ canopy with peekaboo windows.
More spacious than twin buggies
It's not necessary to have twins to benefit from a larger double buggy - they're ideal for siblings of different age groups and let you go about your day without worrying about your children touching each other. They're typically a more spacious with one seat in front of the other. The seats can be reclined completely for infants, or put in an upright position for toddlers.
twin pushchair is a popular option. It has the slimmest design that is side-by-side, and a footprint that is similar to one stroller. It also comes with an adjustable handle, which makes it easier for parents of different heights to push, and a handbrake that is helpful when climbing steep hills. It is suitable from birth and is compatible with a range of car seats and carrycots. This means it makes an excellent travel system.
Another option is the iCandy Wave, which has the convenience of a single click to fold and is able to be used in duo or mono mode. The frame's clever design expands in width to accommodate the second chair and can be used up to two car seats or carrycots. This makes it an ideal choice for older siblings that wish to sit together. It's a bit longer than other models, but it feels light and has a comfortable suspension for the 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 example - which provide stability and swift steering. These can often be folded into a single buggy if you have limited space at home or need to transport it from your car to the bus.
It's worth bearing in mind that a wide double buggy will feel heavier and bulkier than a compact single buggy, so make sure it's what you need before you buy. It will be used on trains, buses and subways frequently, therefore it must be simple to operate and use. You may need to juggle the car seat in and out when taking your child to school or to nursery.
From birth
Whether you're expecting twins or have a second child after your first, you're going to require a pushchair that fits the entire family. Double buggies are generally larger, heavier and cost more than single strollers, but they are also easier to manoeuvre through narrower doors or around obstacles such as curbs. They are also compatible with piggyback ride-along boards (either from the manufacturer or through an additional accessory purchase) which means you can carry three children at once.
Tandem pushchairs put one child in front of the other. They're a great option if your children are similar in age and are able to get along. They're not completely safe. Siblings sitting side-by-side can kick or punch each other and children of different heights may fight over who sits higher. This issue can be resolved by a tandem high-low model that elevates the seat to the rear. Your child's older one isn't seated at the lower part of the car, and won't get much of an opportunity to see.
The iCandy Wave is a good choice for parents looking for a convertible double buggy that includes a carrycot that is able to accommodate both the newborn and the older child. It features a smart frame that expands in width when you add the second seat and folds down flat for compact storage. The cushioned straps, buckles, and seats are all of the best quality we have seen in any of our tests. The canopy is large in size with UPF 50+ protection, and a the window is peekaboo. Both seats can recline independently.
The only drawback to the iCandy is that it's a little on the expensive side but a high-quality tandem will last for a long time and retain its resale value, which means you'll likely recoup some of the cost over the long term. It doesn't come with the same variety of seating options as others of our top picks, but the iCandy is a great choice for families who don't wish to shell out a lot of money.