Choosing a Double Pushchair
Double pushchairs let parents transport their children either side-by-side, or in tandem. This is ideal for twins and siblings who are similar in age.
Consider your family's budget as well as needs when you are looking for a double stroller. Double buggies come in different designs, from light models to all-terrain versions.
Size
A double pushchair can be an investment of a significant amount and the size of your household will affect the choice. There are a variety of options that are lightweight and compact available for those with limited space.
We suggest that you measure the doorways as well as the aisles and public spaces in which you plan to use the pushchair. It is an excellent idea to buy a cardboard cut-out of your new pushchair so you can see how it fits through these spaces prior to making a decision.
You must also think about where you'll put the pushchair in storage, as it may not be practical to store it in your car's boot for extended periods. If you intend to travel a lot by public transport, it's crucial that the double pushchair folds down to a compact size and is easy to get on and off of trains, buses and trams.
The majority of double strollers and pushchairs were designed to carry 2 children side-by-side. (The Bugaboo Donkey 5 and Mountain Buggy Duet are exceptions). Some models allow you to reverse both seats so that they face you. the Babyzen YOYO+ Twin) however, they are usually reserved for families who have twins or extremely close siblings.
Many of the top-rated double pushchairs can be customised to work with various infant car seats as well as toddler seats. Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double, for instance, is compatible with two car seats for kids. prams for newborns comes with reversible seats so that a child can sit with their sister while the other look out and explore the world.
The Bugaboo Donkey 5 Duo is an elegant and practical double pushchair that offers an elegant design and is suitable for babies of all different ages. They can be used in a variety of configurations, including attaching a single infant car seat. This makes them an ideal choice for families who have twins or very close babies.
Style
When you're choosing a double pushchair, it is important to think about how your children are likely to fit in them. This will be determined by their height, age and requirements, but you'll also need to consider the style of the pushchair as well as its ease of use. It's worth reading the reviews to get a feel for what people like and dislike about the products they've bought.
There are two types of double strollers to pick from. Side-by-side pushchairs seat children side by side and are generally facing the world (although there are a few options which allow you to alter this, such as the Bugaboo Donkey and Mountain Buggy Duet). Tandem pushchairs seat one in the back and one in front and they're usually more upright than side-by-side models. They're not as compact, and may be difficult to maneuver in narrow streets, but they're a great choice for older toddlers who can sit up and enjoy the world.
The Cybex Aton 2 double pushchair is an excellent choice for families who are looking for a lightweight, affordable and a versatile double stroller. It seats kids right close to each other, so they can talk and sit or play together, and it can accommodate two car seats too if you need them.
The seat and carrycot come with five-point harnesses that can be adjusted for leg and feet rests. The UPF 50+ canopy extends to offer real shade and has a peekaboo window to let kids enjoy the view as they travel. The frame isn't made for rough terrain, but it can handle urban streets and shopping aisles.
It's easy to fold up and put together and also comes with a storage basket beneath the seats. It's more expensive than other light buggies, but it offers many configurations that can be customized to meet the needs of different people. It's also a great choice for older toddlers. It can be fitted with an extra running board for older kids to give them additional stability when standing up. It can also be converted into a single buggy by replacing one of the seats with a side-basket if you don't want both kids to ride in it anymore.
Budget
If you're expecting a child or have two children, a double pushchair can be an essential investment. Although they cost more than single strollers, you can get a high-quality one that will last for several years. Before you purchase take a look at your family's needs and priorities, taking into consideration things such as the age range of children, the terrain you intend to navigate, the lifestyle of your family and features that are of the most importance to you.
For example, if your children are born at fairly close intervals then you might prefer a side-by-side style that can let the child with the smallest sit with their older sibling to bond and provide assurance. If you live in a city and intend to take public transportation a lot, you may need a light, compact double buggy. It should be simple to fold and can be tucked away into narrow doors and elevators.
A tandem pushchair is perfect for twins or babies born closer together, as it allows your older child to sit behind the younger one. Some models offer the option of having them facing each other or world facing so your children can explore their surroundings independently of one another. Tandems are somewhat more difficult to steer and can be difficult to maneuver up and down kerbs, however they are much easier to fit into narrow doorways and aisles.
Some models are designed for flexibility and can be converted back to a single stroller when you don't require the second seat. The UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double and Joovy Caboose Ultralight graphite are two examples of this.
Another thing to consider is the amount of storage space you need. Some double pushchairs come with a large basket under the carriage, whereas other models have only a few storage pockets or none at all. If you intend to use your double pushchair frequently for shopping or long distance walking traveling, you may prefer one with a spacious storage area.
Other important factors include safety, convenience and the ease of cleaning. You'll want a pushchair that has easy-to-clean fabric and wheels that are machine washable. Also, make sure that the buckles are easy to fasten and unfasten, especially for a baby.
Test-driving
When you are choosing a double-buggy there are a lot of factors to consider, including the weight, fold size and type of wheels. Be sure that the brand you choose is reputable for quality, as this will increase the resale value when you're ready for a change.
When folded side-by-side models are smaller and can be more easily moving across and down kerbs. They may not fit into every doorway and larger families might find it difficult to use them.
The Cybex Xeon 3 is a elegant and light option that works the same way with two children in the seat as it does with just one. It is also possible to use it in a single mode with a basket positioned next to it. This is a great choice for parents with limited storage space. Sophie who was our home test participant found it easy to move even with two children in the seats. She also liked that it can be folded with the seat removed. This makes it more compact.