Buying a Tandem Double Buggy
A tandem double buggy could be a great option when you have twins or children who are very close in age. They are narrower than side-by-side buggies and are perfect for small spaces such as doorways, public transport and rocky terrain.
Some convert into travel systems to use two carrycots or car seats. However, they are heavier and longer than single pushchairs and might feel less stable when as they bump up kerbs.
Convertible
Whether you're looking for a convertible stroller that converts from single to double or to add a second seat to an existing one, there's several options available. The Vista V2 from UPPAbaby is a spacious, gorgeous stroller that can easily be converted from a single to double by adding the rumble seat (available separately). However, it's pricey and less mobile than other double strollers due to the fact that the second seat is placed in front of the front seat. The Nuna Demi Grow is a similar option with great seating versatility but lacks under-seat storage when used in doubles mode.
Other options include twin buggies that have all-terrain wheels and joggers with fixed wheels that can accommodate two kids. These tend to be more expensive, but they're made to last longer on rough terrain and could have greater resales value.
Independent seat recline
If you want a double stroller that will accommodate children of different ages, you will need one with an independent recliner for both seats. This allows your child of a higher age to rest while the baby is sleeping in a bassinet, and vice versa.
Consider the size of your pushchair, as this will determine how easy it is for you to navigate through doors and on public transportation. If you have very narrow doors, it could be worthwhile to consider a side-by-side pushchair such as the Mountain Buggy Duet which has the advantage 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, making them more difficult to maneuver up and down kerbs. However, they can accommodate more combinations of car seats/car seats/seats and can make a great option for twins and siblings of various age. They are also more expensive than single-to double buggies, but are worth the purchase if you plan to keep it for many years and will retain a decent amount of resale value should you decide to sell it after your children have grown out of it.
Another thing to look out for is if the seat backs are able to recline independently of each other since this will allow you to place your child in the most optimal position for naps or watching. This is crucial when your child is in the back seat and wants to nap while the more mature child prefers to sit and observe the surrounding.
Certain brands come with an exclusive seat design that allows the back seat to fully recline into an almost flat position which is perfect for newborns. For example the iCandy Orange has raised stadium-style seating that can recline both the included toddler seat as well as the optional RumbleSeat into multiple positions so your kids can have a choice of where to sit, as well as offering an excellent UPF 50+ canopy with windows that peek out.
Larger than twin buggies
They are ideal for siblings of different age groups, and you can get around without having to worry about your children touching. They're usually a bit larger too with one seat placed behind the other and usually 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 similar to the footprint of a single stroller. It features an adjustable handle that makes it easier for parents to push, and a handbrake which is helpful on steep hills. It can be used from birth and is compatible with a range of car seats and carrycots. This means it is a great travel system.
Another option is the iCandy Wave, which has an easy one-click fold and can be used in mono or duo mode. The frame's clever design can be expanded to accommodate an additional chair and can be used with up to two car seats or carrycots. https://stack-yu.federatedjournals.com/7-simple-secrets-to-totally-rolling-with-your-double-pushchair-from-birth makes it a great option for older siblings who want to sit together. It's a bit larger than other models, but it feels light and has soft suspension for kerbs.
There are plenty of 3-wheeler tandems that have inline wheels that offer stability and quick steering. Check out Phil and Teds inline models as well as iCandy Peach and Pear buggies. These can often be folded into a single buggy if you are limited in space at home, or need to carry it from the car to the bus stop.
Be aware that a double-wide buggy will be more heavy and heavier than one compact buggy. Be sure you know what you want prior to making a buy. It is likely to be used on buses, trains and subways frequently, so it must be easy to manage and use. You may also need to move it on and off the car seat while taking your children to nursery or school so you'll need to know it can be easily manoeuvred within small spaces.
From birth
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 heavier and bulkier, as well as more expensive than single strollers. However they are also easier to maneuver in tighter doorways or around obstacles such as curbs. Many double buggies can be used with piggyback boards (available from the manufacturer or as an accessory). This lets you transport three children at once.
Tandem pushchairs seat one child in front of the other, and they're generally a better option when you have two children who are similar in age to function well together. But they're not completely safe Side-by-side chairs can kick or punch each other, and kids with different heights may argue over who gets to sit higher. A tandem high-low model is able to solve this issue by elevating the seat towards the rear, preventing your child's height from being sat on the bottom and not having much of a view.
The iCandy Wave is a great alternative for parents who want an easy-to-use convertible double buggy that can fit both a newborn in a carrycot, and an older child in the main seat. It has a clever frame that can be expanded in width when you add the second seat. It folds to flattish storage. The cushioned straps, buckles, and seats are all of the best quality we have seen in any of our tests. The canopies have a generous size, UPF 50+ protection, and peekaboo window. Both seats can recline independently.
The only drawback of the iCandy is that it's expensive however, a good tandem will last a long time and retain its resale value, which means you'll probably recoup some of the cost in the end. The iCandy does not have the same seating arrangements as our other top choices. It's nevertheless a good option for families who don't want to spend much money.