A Double Buggy Is a Must-Have For Families With Two Kids
A double buggy is essential for families with more than one child. It can help you navigate urban roads and off road trails without difficulty while making sure that your children are comfortable and happy.
When you are choosing a double stroller, there are many factors to consider. Check that it can fit into your car boot and doorway when folded.
Lightweight
It's exciting to welcome home a second child, but there are many practical considerations. The addition of another child to the family can mean changing the layout of living spaces, thinking about car seats, and of course, buying the latest double buggy.
Whether you're shopping for twins or just need something a little more compact there are plenty of options available on the market. Our lab experts recommend the iCandy Peach, which comes with a set of accessories that other brands cost extra for and is very compact and folds up to occupy a tiny space in your boot. It rolls smoothly and is easy to manoeuvre. However, it could be a bit long when you're using it in double mode.
Side-by-side buggies work well for keeping kids together however they can be a bit wider than a single stroller. This can make it difficult to maneuver up and down kerbs. The Mountain Buggy Duet Luxury is the slimmest side-by-side available on the market and, at just 63cm wide, it's the same size as a single pushchair. This makes it easy to fit through doorways and on public transport. It is compatible with many car seats, and it can expand with your family. You can use it as a mono or tandem buggy when your children are old enough to sit together.
Its height adjustable handle is great for steering, and the suspension can take care of slick surfaces. It's a great option for older kids, as it has a seat elevated to give them an even better view of the action. It's not as light as other models on this list but it's a great option.
It's crucial to select a double buggy that is comfortable to push. Look for a handle that's comfortable and well-shaped to fit your height, as well as a spacious basket with plenty of pockets and compartments. It's also worth looking into how easy it is to fold and store your buggy when you're not using it.
Easy to maneuver
There are some fantastic double buggies on the market that make traveling with two children much more convenient. For example the iCandy Orange is an all-in-one option that can accommodate twins (or one toddler and a baby) with both carrycots or seats facing either backward or forward and even a third seat using piggyback boards (sold separately). Its sleek, light frame, swivel front wheels and suspension ensure it's easy to manoeuvre through town and on rougher terrain.
The Joie Evalite Duo is another side-byside model that's extremely light and has a small footprint. They can be easily stored with the seats attached. However, they do require a bit more muscle to push over kerbs and can be trickier on uneven surfaces. The UPPAbaby Vista 2 can be used in tandem mode using both carrycots and seats and can be used to push one buggy. The clever frame expands in width.
If you intend to use public transport frequently, you may want to consider a double-buggy that has big wheels. They are more suited to rough or uneven surfaces. Also, consider the ease with which you can fold and unfold the buggy, as well as the width when folded to determine if your boot will be enough to hold it. If you reside in an area with narrow streets, consider a tandem double stroller where the child is seated behind their partner instead of in front of them. This makes it easier to maneuver around tight spaces.
Lots of storage
A double buggy isn't necessary for every family, but it can make outings more manageable for those with toddlers and newborns. If you're looking for a lightweight model that's easy to maneuver, check out the range of double buggies that are side-by-side. They come with a large basket under and a rear and side pockets that can be used to store the necessities for your baby. There are a variety of models that feature adjustable handles that are suited to parents of different heights. They fold down in a neat, compact form ideal for use in small spaces or for tucking away in the boot.
If you want a more robust double buggy, you can choose one of the all-terrain models. These tend to be twin and can be more difficult to manoeuvre but they're often equipped with a reclined seat for newborns and older babies and are a great option for outdoor enthusiasts and active families. Some of them allow you to transform the buggy into a Jogger, which makes them perfect for exercise and running.
Many of the best double buggies are able to accommodate many different combinations of car seats, carrycots and seats. They are an excellent choice for families with twins or siblings of similar ages. However, it is crucial to look up the specifications of the model you're interested in.
There are two main types of double buggy - twin, where your children sit together, or tandem, with one seat in front of the other. A twin buggy has one main advantage that children can interact instead of fighting over who gets to sit in the front. However, twin buggys tend to be larger and may be difficult to navigate through the supermarket's doorways and aisles.
Tandem buggies are generally a bit shorter, but they're still longer than single models. They're also less stable when bumping up kerbs and might require dismantling to fit in the car boot. Reclining the seat independently is now a fairly standard feature on most double buggies, so do make sure that your chosen model will let you adjust each child's seat to the position they're most comfortable in.
Comfort
Double buggys that are comfortable for both parents and children are the most comfortable. Examine the padding on the straps as well as the amount of recline that each seat can attain. Also, check if the seats can be adjusted independently so that you can adapt to your child's needs. Make sure you know the weight limit and whether each has a hood, or sun canopy to protect from wind and rain.
If you're looking for a flexible alternative to a double pushchair then you should consider a baby carriage. They are great for toddlers who want to walk but require an extra ride. They are also great for infants and newborns. Some carriers can be used with the car seat for greater flexibility.
Some parents believe that a side by side double buggy is the best option. However there are some new models on the market, like the Mountain Buggy Duet Luxury in herringbone. It is the lightest double buggy side by side available on the market.
The Wave from Mamas & Papas is another clever option that provides more configuration options than most other tandem buggies. It is a mono-pushchair and you can add a carrycot or a second one to the frame using adaptors. This provides you with an array of seating options. It is easy to navigate, has a fantastic suspension and Lab experts were amazed by how simple it was fold. Simply pull up on the two straps (one under each seat) and then you can fold the whole thing in minutes.
Double buggys are an investment that will last for many years. They also offer a reasonable resales cost. When comparing prices it is important to keep in mind that buying a brand name model can allow you to get extra accessories and upgrades later on. For example, some of our top-rated double buggies come with a handy Changing Bag and Carrier included in the cost. This is a must-have item that will help you save time, effort and money when you travel with your baby.