9 Things Your Parents Taught You About Twin Pushchairs
Buying a Twin Pushchair
It's important to consider the various configurations when you are looking for a double pushchair. The two main options are tandem double buggies and side-byside double buggies.
The iCandy Strawberry twin buggy is a real favourite with parents and will grow with your family. It begins life as an individual, but can take 2 car seats or carrycots in pram double mode.
Easy to Manoeuvre
Whether you're taking twins out for a stroll or have a toddler and baby at the same time, a double pushchair is an essential tool when it comes to keeping them content. Double buggys, also known as twin prams as they're sometimes referred to, are available in a variety of designs to fit all kinds of families. Some are side-by-side, whereas others have a front and other back for narrow spaces. Some can be converted into single prams when your kids grow out of them, making them an ideal option for growing families.
Side-by-side twin buggies (or tandem twin buggies) are easy to steer as their front wheels are able to be locked to provide extra stability, and there's generally more storage space behind them. They are smaller than other twin buggies and are easier to maneuver through doors or on public transport. They tend to be lighter than other twin prams, so they are more mobile too, although you might encounter difficulties getting to and from kerbs, or on uneven terrain.
If you're looking for a more modern twin pushchair the iCandy Peach is a stylish choice that's available in a variety of colours. It's also a fantastic twin stroller for babies and newborns, thanks to the cosy newborn cocoons which make a comfortable, flat-floored space. It also has a small shopping basket but has impressive suspension, so it can take on bumpy surfaces.
Many twin buggies can be used as travel systems, meaning they come with car seats that can be affixed to the frame. This is a great feature when traveling with toddlers and babies because you don't have to transfer them from their car to their pushchair. This can cause disturbance to them. The UPPAbaby Vista 2 is an example of twin pushchairs that can be used as a travel system and it even features a clever parent-facing mode for newborns.
Tandem twin buggies, on the contrary, are generally designed for children of similar age and are more likely to provide an individual seat for each child. They are less likely to include carrycots for infants younger than six months old, and tend to be wider than single buggies. They are still able to be moved, however they are often equipped with an recline that is independent, so that both kids can sit up or recline to snooze.
Folding is easy
You'll want your double pushchair that folds easily should you decide to purchase it. This will make it easier to move the buggy around and store it in smaller spaces. Many brands offer a range of ways to fold the pushchair, so you can find one that meets your requirements. Some models have a strap for the shoulder that makes it easier to carry.
Most twin pushchairs are foldable pushchair using just one hand, however it is important to confirm before buying to ensure that the one you purchase can do this. Some of the best models can be folded with the seat removed, making them even smaller. This is particularly useful for those with limited storage space.
Another thing to look out for is whether your twin pushchair is capable of fitting through standard doorways. It is important to determine the dimensions of your door prior to purchasing twin buggies. There are smaller models that can be used to fit through doors that are narrower If this is the case.
In our lab tests in our lab tests, the UPPAbaby Vista was a winner for being easy to fold and compact when not in use. It can fit two infant car seats and two toddler seats. This makes it an ideal choice for families that are growing. It comes with a large storage basket and rubber tires that have foam fillings that will not flatten.
It's more affordable than the other models we tested, and it's a great choice for twins or babies of similar age. It can be used with both an incredibly comfortable carrycot as well as an infant seat, and it can even accommodate three children by incorporating UPPAbaby's PiggyBack board (sold separately).
Chicco Cortina together is a great choice for two strollers that are affordable. It can fit two Chicco infant car seats, making it suitable for twins from birth. It has a large storage basket, an easy-to use handlebar and brakes.
Easy to store
The good news is that not all double buggies are huge heavy, bulky, and difficult to keep in storage. There are a variety of models that are designed to ensure they are slim and manageable. This can help them be smaller in size and make it easier to get in and out of the vehicle.
Some twin pushchairs are also light which makes them easy to transport and cope with busses, trains and shopping aisles. The UPPAbaby Vista 2 comes to mind, with its lightweight frame that can withstand rough terrain and four-wheel suspension. With the addition of a 'piggyback board', it can accommodate twins or a baby and toddler.
Most twin buggys offer ample storage space It's important to check whether this is still accessible when both seats are in use. Some side-byside configurations are tricky. The "one above and one below' tandem can also hinder access by children's legs. Find large compartments, baskets and pockets that can hold everything from toys and snacks to sunscreen and rain covers.
Consider the add-ons that are available. Some twin pushchairs come with an array of accessories that are useful such as drink holders for the little children to snack trays for older children. Find models with these features, along with an integrated sun canopy, raincover, and hood.
Many twin pushchairs are able to be transformed into a travel system to accommodate families that are growing, with the option to add a buggy seat, carrycot and Car seat Pram seat. This is particularly beneficial for toddlers and newborns since it guarantees they're secure, comfortable and ready for every adventure. The egg2 is a popular choice for this, due to its sleek styling and flexibility, though it's a bit heavier than some rivals.
If you are on a budget there are some great options that cost less than PS200. The iCandy Pegasus 2 is a excellent choice, thanks to its large basket and easy-access storage in all seating positions. It also comes with a padded leg support as well as a rain cover.
Easy to transport
If you are planning to use your twin buggy on long-distance family excursions and city tours, it's worth investing into a model that can be folded down to fit in the trunk or in the boot of a rental vehicle. A slim and manageable design will also make it easier to negotiate narrow doors and aisles on public transport.
There are models that fold with the seats removed for more compact storage. These are ideal for use at home. It is also important to take into consideration the weight of a double buggy. Heavier buggies are more difficult to maneuver and could be difficult to maneuver up or down kerbs.
Most twin pushchairs have fixed side-by-side models, but some can accommodate two carrycots or seat units (and sometimes a third). Some twin pushchairs are suitable for single children with an age difference of less than two years or siblings. The brilliant Bugaboo Donkey 5 Duo, with its reversible seats allows the children to face one another, or you. It also has different configurations suitable for babies to toddlers.
A twin pushchair can be an ideal option for families who live near public transport, as it's generally easier to hop on and off trains, buses, or trams. It is ideal for towns and cities that have large numbers of people, bustling streets, or shopping centers.
If you're in search of a twin-pushchair pram which allows you to easily hop on and off public transport, we suggest a model like the UPPAbaby Vista 2 – a sleek urban buggy that can be used by two infants with the newborn cocoons included or for one baby and an older child by using its clever'sidepack'. (available separately for PS45). The second seat can be connected to the frame at the back and is able to be positioned to face either direction. You can also add a piggyback (also available separately for PS120) to ensure that you can take three kids on longer trips.