Which Double Tandem Pushchair is Best For Your Family?

If you're planning for twins or another child, there are a variety of products available to make your life with children moving around more comfortable. One of these is the double tandem pushchair.

From Phil & Teds, to Baby Jogger, most brands offer a double stroller in their product range. They are available in line or side-by-side convertible models.

Stability

If you have twins, or children who are close in age, a double tandem pushchair makes travelling with two of them much easier and more comfortable. But, with numerous styles and configurations out there it can be difficult to determine which one is best for your family. Some are better for jogging than others, or fit a third seat when you add buggy boards. Which ones are the most stable?

Side-by-side pushchairs (like the CYBEX Gazelle S) are great for transporting children of the same age. They can be difficult to maneuver through narrow doorways or aisles of shopping. In this situation you might prefer models that are stadium-style, such as the Bugaboo Donkey, or Mountain Buggy Duet. These models let your children face either you or eachother according to their configuration.

Tandem models, which put one behind the other, are more manageable but still not as stable as single strollers or child car seats. They can be a challenge to lift up curbs and they could have less storage space than a side-by-side pushchair.

To gain a real impression of the stability of a double buggy converts to single, you need to test it with both seats on, as this is how you will be using it the most often. Examine the ease with which it is to navigate and steer the vehicle, particularly in tight corners or with the front wheels that swivel. It is recommended to test the brakes as well because they may be difficult to operate when the child and adult seats are both attached.

The Phil & Teds Sports Double is the perfect double stroller for those who want a quality stroller that is affordable and able to perform all. This sleek compact stroller can be changed from a single model to tandem in a few easy steps. The seat and carrycot can be used either parent-facing or facing one another. Its air-filled tires and all-wheel suspension enable it to take on a variety of terrains. It also comes with an underseat storage basket, but access to this is partially restricted when the second seat is placed.

Comfort

If you have twins or a newborn and toddler there is a double pushchair that will suit your family. They can be used to transport two children side-by-side, but many can be converted into one pushchair (though this typically requires taking off one seat). They tend to be larger than a single pushchair, but the majority offer ultra flexibility and value for price.

In our recent double review of pushchairs, we asked testers to score each model on a range of aspects, including comfort, ease of handling and how it folded. They also evaluated how easy it was to get the car seat in and out, and if it could be used with a baby car.

The Stroller & Co City Tour 2 Double stroller is a fantastic example of lightweight, comfortable and flexible dual stroller. Our reviewers praised the generous UPF 50+ canopy that provides real shade and includes an opening window for peekaboos, and both seats recline into multiple positions at the touch of the button. One seat can be set to lie flat so that baby can rest comfortably in the carrycot which is attached to it.

Other great features of this model include the padded handlebar that comes with a cup pouch and holder and the easy-to-use brake system, and the reversible seat liner with naturally anti-bacterial bamboo on one side and soft jersey on the other. The fact that it can be folded in just one hand is also a great feature, especially when you're responsible for two small children.

They're more expensive, but can offer greater flexibility because they can be able to pass through narrow aisles and doors. They aren't easy to move up kerbs, and heavy to push, but they have an front-loaded load that can help balance the overall weight.

Flexibility

If you're looking for a way to keep your twins in close proximity or have a baby and toddler, a double tandem pushchair can be an invaluable addition to your family. It can reduce the stress of children who wake one another up or fighting out and about, keeping them both happy. This type of buggy is also great if you're planning to take it on public transport because it is easier to fit it in the space available.

Some models are ultra flexible and allow you to change back to single mode once your child is ready to use a stroller. This lets you avoid buying an entirely new stroller. The UPPAbaby V2 Double is able to fit two infant car seats in the back and a riding board, making it perfect for three kids. It can also be used with a stroller and a rolling suitcase for parents, allowing you to travel light but still having everything your family requires.

The Joovy Caboose Ultralight Graphite double stroller is a different design than its counterparts, but it offers many of the same features that we have outlined in our top picks. We love that it folds with hands and easily through doorways, and the basket under the carriage is higher to make it easier to drop on shopping. Its rear seat is also protected to keep your kid warm in winter.

A tandem is narrower than a side-by-side, making it difficult to navigate narrow aisles in stores or busy footpaths. It is also easier to maneuver on rocky terrain compared to a standard double pushchair. Some of these prams can be difficult to steer, particularly when your child is larger.

A double buggy that converts to single pushchair that is inline, however is a better choice for the majority of families. It can be used as twin strollers for newborns prams for children who are young but it could also be converted into a tandem once they get older. Certain models, such as the iCandy Peach 3+ can accept two iSize car seat. This gives you maximum flexibility and value.

Stores

The biggest downside to a double buggy is that it could take up more space on public transport, and may be harder to navigate through narrow doors and lifts. They also cost more and are more expensive for side-by-side models, especially those with a second seat up in the front.

Certain models can be converted from a single pushchair to tandem like the Joolz Geo and the Uppababy Vista V2. This can be a good option when you're planning to have another child at some point and also extends the lifespan of your buggy. However, it's tricky to convert back to a single when your older child outgrows it.

Stadium Duo is the perfect dual stroller for urban adventures. It's lightweight and compact. It features a one-click, one-hand fold and the ability to lock storage automatically, and it's compatible with 2 SnugEssentials or SnugRide i-Size infant car seats* for hassle-free transitions. The stadium-style seating allows both children to take in the view. You can connect your infant car seats to the rear or front of the stroller in just one click. There's also a huge shopping basket and parent tray which means you can carry everything you need to get out. The suspension and swivel wheels offer smooth rides and better manoeuvrability. The 5-point safety belts that are fitted to both seats increase the safety of your child.