9 Lessons Your Parents Teach You About Twin Pushchairs
Buying a Twin Pushchair
It is crucial to consider the various options when choosing a double pushchair. The most popular options are twin double buggies and side-by-side double buggies.
The iCandy Strawberry twin buggy is an absolute hit with parents and will grow with your family. It is initially a single, but will take 2 carrycots or car seats in double mode.
Easy to manoeuvre
A double pushchair can be a lifesaver for families with twins, or a baby and toddler. Double buggys or twin prams, as they're also known, come in a variety of designs that will suit any family. Some are side-by-side, whereas others feature a single front and the back to accommodate narrow spaces. Some can also be transformed into single prams once your kids outgrow them, which makes them a good option for families with growing children.
Side-by-side twin buggies (or tandem twin buggies) are easy to steer because their front wheels can be locked to provide added stability, and there is generally more storage space behind them. They're also smaller than some other twin buggies, so they're easier to navigate through doors and on public transport. They are generally lighter than other twin prams, so can be more compact too However, you may be unable to maneuver them up and down kerbs on uneven terrain.
If you're looking for a more compact twin pushchair, the iCandy Peach is a stylish choice that's available in a variety of colours. It's also a fantastic twin childs pram for infants and newborns thanks to its cosy newborn cocoons, which create an enclosed space to lie flat. It also comes with a small shopping basket but has impressive suspension, so it's able to take on bumpy surfaces.
Many twin buggies are travel systems that have car seats that can be attached to the frame. This can be useful when traveling with infants and toddlers since you don't have to move them from the car to the pushchair which could be disruptive 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 mode that allows parents to be in the same room with their babies.
Tandem twin buggies are designed for children of similar ages. They are more likely to have a separate seat for each child. They're less likely to include carrycots for babies, and are typically larger than single buggies. They can still be easily manoeuvred, though, and many have independent seat recline so that both kids can sit up or recline to a snooze position.
Easy to fold
You'll want your double pushchair to be easy-to-fold when you purchase it. This will make it easier for you to move the buggy around and put it away in smaller spaces. There are many ways to fold your pushchair. Some even include a handy shoulder strap to make it easier to carry.
Most twin pushchairs can be folded using one hand, but it is worth checking before you buy that yours will be able to do this. Some of the top models are able to fold with the seat taken out which makes them smaller. This is particularly useful in the case of a lack of storage space.
Another thing to be on the lookout for is whether your twin pushchair is able to fit through doors that are standard. The larger width of tandem buggies may be an issue and it's a good prams idea to measure the width of your doors before you purchase. There are smaller models that are designed to fit through narrower doors if this is an issue.
UPPAbaby Vista won our lab tests for its compactness and ease of folding when not in use. It can fit two infant car seats and two toddler seats. This makes it an ideal choice for growing families. It has a huge storage basket, as well as rubber tires that have foam fillings that won't flatten.
It's more affordable than some of the other models we've looked at and is an excellent choice for twins or babies with similar ages. It can be used with an incredibly comfortable carrycot as well as an infant seat and can accommodate three kids with the addition of the UPPAbaby PiggyBack board (sold separately).
If you're in search of a cost-effective dual stroller, check out the Chicco Cortina Together. It can fit two Chicco infant car seat, so it is suitable for twins. It comes with a large storage basket, an easy to use handlebar, and brakes.
Easy to store
The good news is that not all double buggies are large, bulky and difficult to store. There are a variety of models that are designed so they are slim and manageable. This allows them to be smaller in size and make it simpler to get in and out of the car.
Some twin pushchairs are light, making them a breeze to transport and cope with busses, trains and shopping aisles. The UPPAbaby Vista 2 is a excellent example, with its light frame and four-wheel suspension, making it easy to maneuver over rough terrain. With the addition of an 'piggyback board', it can accommodate twins or a baby and toddler.
Most twin-buggy models offer plenty of storage space It's important to check whether this is still accessible when both seats are in use. Some side-byside configurations can be difficult and the 'one above one below, one above' type of tandem can also make access difficult due to child's legs. Look for large baskets, pockets, and compartments to store everything from sun cream and rain covers to snacks and toys.
Take a look at the accessories that are available. Some twin pushchairs travel systems come with a range of extras that can be useful including drink holders for the little ones to snack tray for older children. Look for models with these features, along with an integrated sun canopy, raincover, and hood.
Many twin pushchairs can be transformed into a travel system to accommodate growing families, with the option to add a buggy seat, carrycot and car seat. This can be particularly useful for toddlers and newborns, as it ensures that they're safe, comfy and ready for any adventure. The egg2 is a favorite for this, due to its sleek styling and versatility, although it can be a bit heavier than its competitors.
If you're on a tight budget, there are some excellent options that cost less than PS200. The iCandy Pegasus 2 is a great choice, with its spacious basket and easy-access storage in all seating positions. It comes with a cushioned foot support and a waterproof cover.
Easy to transport
If you plan on using your twin buggy on long-distance family trips as well as city excursions, you should look into a model which can fold down to fit in the trunk or in a rental vehicle. A compact and easy-to-manage design can also help you navigate narrow aisles and doors on public transportation.
You'll be able to find models that fold with seats separating for more compact storage, although these are often better left to be used for home use. You'll need to think about the weight of the buggy as well heavier double buggies are likely to be more difficult to manoeuvre and might struggle to get up and down kerbs.
Most twin pushchairs (visit the up coming document) are fixed side-by-side designs, and some can accommodate two carrycots, or seat units (and sometimes a third). Some twin pushchairs are suitable for single children with a gap of less than two years or by siblings. The brilliant Bugaboo Donkey 5 Duo, with its reversible seating, lets the children face one another or you. It also comes with different configurations that are suitable for newborns to toddlers.
It's easier to get on and off the train, bus or tram using a twin pushchair. It's also good for busy cities and towns in which you'll be traversing a lot of people and shopping centres, as well as streets.
If you are looking for a twin-pushchair that allows you to effortlessly get on and off public transport, we recommend a model like the UPPAbaby Vista 2 – a sleek, stylish city buggy which can be used by two newborns using the newborn cocoons included or for one baby and an older child using its clever'sidepack'. (available separately for PS45). The second seat is connected to the frame at the back and can be used in any direction. You can add piggybacks (also available separately for PS120) which means you can take three children on longer journeys.