Choosing a Double Pram and Pushchair

A good double pram or pushchair can simplify family life, especially on busy streets or in stores and shops. Choose a model that has ample storage space for nappies snacks, nappies, and other essentials.

Some first-time parents choose a future-proof pushchair that can be used as a single stroller when baby is born, and converted to a twin mode after he or she arrives. Joolz provides a variety of these options.

Tandem

The announcement that you are expecting a baby is among life's most exciting experiences. But, once the initial excitement wears off and reality begins to sink in, you may be faced with a multitude of decisions about how to prepare your family for the arrival of your baby one or one. The right pram or stroller is among the most important things to consider.

Tandem prams (also called 'in-line' Double Running Stroller prams) are a classic design that have two seats or pram bassinets that are arranged side-by-side. The front seat is usually cushioned and reclines to a flat position making it suitable for infants while the second one is more upright and can accommodate toddlers from around three years of age. Some models let you select whether your children stare at each other or look outwards. Many tandems can be converted to one pushchair when your oldest child is no longer required to have the second seat.

A tandem is less expensive than a twin pram and is an ideal choice for parents who wish to save money, without compromising safety or functionality. However, the drawback of a tandem is that it could be heavy and long to steer, particularly when going up or down kerbs. Additionally, it is often less stable than a twin pushchair, particularly if the older child is seated in the front. A tandem can also be difficult to fit onto public transport, and it can be difficult to maneuver on narrow roads.

The iCandy Peach is a popular model with a strong image that's a great option for a single parent who wants something streamlined however the tandem mode can make it feel long and heavy when pushing. It features a clever frame that can be expanded to allow the addition of the second seat, and can be used with multiple combinations of buggy seats, carrycots and car seats (two at a time or in separate). The iCandy Wave is another lightweight tandem option that's easy to use and compatible with a variety of car seats and carrycots.

Side by side

There are many aspects to think about when selecting a double pram buggy pushchair or pram. There are a variety of configuration options to choose from, regardless of whether you're buying for twins or close-in-age siblings. Tandem prams, also known as side-by-side prams, are a popular options because they can be configured so that the infant can sit in the bassinet at the top while the older child or toddler is sitting in the second chair.

Some models even have seats that can be reversible, meaning you can modify the seating to your family's requirements throughout the toddler and baby years. This allows you to keep your little ones always in your sights and gives them a chance to interact with one another as they walk.

Tandem prams can be jogging buggies, or all-terrain buggies. They are ideal for outdoor excursions, like to the park. These are also good for narrow aisles and checkouts in shops and supermarkets, as they are smaller.

The Redsbaby JIVE3 Pram, for instance, can be used as a tandem pram starting from birth in dual mode by adding the use of the rumble seat (PS249). You can then change to a single pram mode when your little one is old enough to leave the rumble seat, or use the car capsule adaptors (PS53) to transform it into a travel system from infant to toddler.

Another alternative is the Side by Side Pram from Babybee. This double side-by-side pram comes in a range of colors and is designed with a modern style. It is designed to be used from birth, you can add the LUNA newborn cocoon (PS262) or the LUNA infant seats (PS53 each) to ensure that your little ones are comfortable and safe.

If you're seeking a sleek, elegant pushchair that can be converted into a double pushchair with car seat-sided side-by-side then the Egg 2 from Chicco is a great option. It's available in a variety of carrycot and infant seat combinations to cater for twins or siblings of varying ages and is super-easy to fold. It's also lightweight and therefore a good option for those with little space in their cars or don't have enough space for storage.

Convertible

Some of the top double pushchairs prams or pushchairs are made into various seats to accommodate your changing needs. It is possible to fit two toddlers in the seats or even a third one on the seat board, and still have space for a shopping basket, and the ability to add accessories such as rain covers is a advantage. Convertible double strollers are generally heavier and bulkier than single pushchairs due to the fact that they are designed to accommodate two or more children. The Graco Modes Nest2Grow convertible is an example of an inexpensive convertible that is very easy to use. However, our reviewers considered it to be a bit heavy for the money.

Some convertible double strollers, such as the Baby Jogger City Select 2 has a carrycot option which is suitable for babies. This reduces the size of the double stroller when not in use and makes it more compact. Our test participants were awestruck by the City Select's clever one-handed fold, though it requires some practice. It's also extremely agile and responsive in spite of its size.

Another option that is affordable is an option that is affordable is the Cybex Mockingbird Single-to-Double Stroller. The seat converts from a car seat with a parent seat to a forward-facing toddler car seat and the bassinet-style mode is a fantastic option for infants (although be aware that babies younger than four months old shouldn't use strollers to sleep due to the risk of positional asphyxia).

If you're looking for more flexibility Consider a convertible that has dual modes such as the iCandy Peach. It's a small double stroller double buggy which can accommodate 2 children side by side and can be used as a tandem by the addition of a second seat kit and rider board. It is nimble and responsive, and our test users loved its sleek design. It's not as light as the other pushchairs in our list however it does come with an ample shopping basket that is great for parents who carry bags of toys and food.

lightweight twin buggy

Some parents like to future-proof their double buggy if they have a child and are expecting another, so a convertible option is a good option. The iCandy Peach can be converted from a single pushchair to double with the addition of a toddler seat or the brand's carrycot (which is ideal for sleeping at night). Our testers were pleased with how comfortable the seats are and adore the fact that both recline to multiple positions, feature built-in foot and leg supports and large UPF 50+ canopy that has peekaboo windows. The rear seat can be lifted high to offer a standing platform for a child to get off and on, to allow them to reach items in the basket of groceries.

The only downside to the iCandy Peach is that it is quite heavy, but Cher felt it was balanced by how easy it is to maneuver and how large the storage is with two hanging child and parent cup holders, seat-back pockets and a large underseat storage basket. She also liked the seat's design, which is reversible, so they can be positioned to face each other for siblings that want to chat and interact together while out and out and about.

The Delta Children LX Side-by-Side Stroller is a less heavy option however, it is still awe-inspiring. It weighs just 18 pounds, is lightweight and features a self standing fold, making it easy to transport or store in your trunk. Parents appreciate the high-quality materials and workmanship, as well as the affordable cost. The only negatives are that the seats don't recline as much as other models we've tested and the rear seat isn't as well-lit because of its position as it is higher than the seat in front.

Another popular option is the Joolz Geo 3, which is slim, sleek and easy to steer, with an attractive design and a lifetime guarantee. Although they are narrower side-by-side prams may be wider than tandems and inline doubles. This makes them difficult to maneuver on busy streets and in shops. They're also shorter and therefore more maneuverable in tight spaces.