Choosing a Double Pushchair With Car Seat
Double pushchairs are great for families with twins, or infants and toddlers. Double pushchairs can accommodate two children in one seat and a carrycot may be added in the event of need.
They typically have a wide number of seat configurations and can fit through most hallways or doors. They're a little longer than side by side buggies, but they're much more sturdy and can be used on pavements.
Easy to manoeuvre
There are several things to consider when choosing the ideal double stroller for your family. It is important to first think about the weight and size and the buggy's folding mechanism wheels, construction and design. If possible, try to purchase a double pushchair and car seats from a reputable brand, as it will provide the highest return on investment in the future.
There are two types of double pushchairs: tandem and side-by-side. Side-by-side buggies are equipped with fixed seats that are positioned side by side, and they are suitable for twins or children of various ages. However they are typically larger than single pushchairs and can be difficult to squeeze through some doors or down narrow paths. They can be also heavy and lengthy to push, especially if the children in the car seats are at the front.
Tandem buggies are generally more flexible as they provide the option of a variety of seating arrangements with the option to have either of the seats facing either forwards or backwards. They are more expensive than side by side pushchairs but can be easier to fold and move. A lot of them come with an enormous basket that can be accessed even when the seats are reclined fully.
A locking front wheel is another feature you must look for in a double pushchair. This will let you navigate through difficult terrain and transitions while making sure your children are secure and comfortable. Check out the storage space and whether it is accessible. This will be useful when you have to do lots of grocery shopping with two children.
When buying a double pushchair and car seat, be sure to check how it is easy to use the buckles and straps. Some have simple buckles that only require one hand for operation and others are more complex and require two hands. Find out if it has a padded strap for the crotch or a shoulder height adjustment. These features are vital to keeping your child safe.
Folding is simple
It's important to think about how it's easy to fold and store a double pushchair which includes a car seat. Even with a child in every seat, the most efficient double strollers fold up quickly and easily. They also fit into small spaces, making them ideal for urban living and parents with a limited amount of storage space.
There are two main types of double pushchairs namely side-by-side and tandem. Side-by-side buggys are typically narrower than single strollers, which makes them ideal for maneuvering through narrow entranceways and narrow walkways. However they can also be long and heavy, which means they can be difficult to push up hills or on kerbs. Certain models include a second seat in the undercarriage, which is useful to shop or for children who would rather sit and watch their surroundings.
Tandem pushchairs can be wider and longer than side-byside models. However, they are extremely versatile and can be adapted to fit with the majority of infant car seats. Some models also come with the option of a rumble-seat and bassinet attachment for families that are growing. The top rated double buggy brands can offer an array of designs, and some even have seats that can be reversible so you can change the seating direction to suit your needs.
The weight of the double buggy is also crucial, particularly when it's being used for a newborn baby in a carrycot. Some of the top double pushchairs have a high capacity for both seats, and some allow you to add a third seat to the frame (although this isn't recommended for all infants).
Check for features such as recline options, reversible seats and adjustable leg rests to ensure your children are comfortable. Some of the top double pushchairs will also feature a built-in parent tray, which can be the perfect place to keep your mobile phone and keys. Most double pushchairs include at least two cupholders and an ample basket to keep everything you need to shop. Some models include suspension and a foot rest to help push twins more easily especially on rough terrain.
Easy to store
If you want a double pushchair that is easy to store, look for one with a compact fold. They tend to be a bit bigger than single buggies, however they can be folded to fit through doors of standard size and take less space in your car or in your boot. Some models even come with a carry bag to make storage is much easier.
The UPPAbaby V2 Double is a great option. This stroller features a side by side seating layout, with a variety of seating configurations including two infant car seats. (Car seats and adapters are available separately) and a bassinet. It also has a large storage basket with UPF 50 and rain canopies, telescoping handlebar, and comfortable seats. You can also include a riding board to allow a third child to be part of the fun.
There are a variety of other options. The Jeep-branded TwinRoo+ is a good choice for outdoor lovers because it can be used as a single or double buggy that comes with Rumble seats (extra kit is required). It has air-filled tires as well as a great suspension. It can also be adapted to running. Some parents complain that the rumble seats' padded back isn’t very comfortable, and that the cup holders on the back of the seat aren't sturdy enough.
The Joovy Twin Xpand Car Seat Frame Double is a different excellent option. It is similar to the style of some of the higher-end award winners. It folds compactly and can accommodate both infant car seats as well as toddler seats that can be modified to serve as bassinets which is ideal for twins or children of different age groups. It can accommodate an additional child seat and an additional rumble seat.
A good budget option is the Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double, that is affordable and comparable in style to some of our more expensive award winners. It can also accommodate an additional seat by adding an rumble seat (sold separately) and comes with an adjustable, reclining seat and a parent cup holder. It has a weight capacity of 50 pounds per seat, meaning it may not be suitable for children who are taller than.
Comfortable seats
A good double pushchair with car seat will provide comfortable seats for your children. The seats should be padded and the harnesses need to be easy to use. The straps must be easily adjustable to height, and the buckles should not require two hands. They should be strong enough to stand up to repeated use. If the buckles can be difficult to operate, they could be unsafe. They should be replaced. Seats should be able recline easily, and come with a large UPF 50+ canopy that has a peekaboo window. The recline feature is ideal for babies who need to rest and older toddlers who like to sit up and observe the world around them.
Tandem buggies are typically designed as a single buggy, and have adapters to add a second seat or infant car seat to the frame. They generally have a narrower footprint than side-by-side strollers, but they may still be too wide for some doors. They can also be heavy and difficult to move between kerbs.
On the other hand, side-by-side buggies are often smaller than tandem models. twin stroller are easier for twins to handle and can be adapted to older siblings. However, they're more expensive and may not be able to be able to fit through all doors. The joovy qool double-bundle is an example of a side-byside model that can be set up with the seats facing in, each other or forward. It can be used with infant car seats and includes a bassinet too.
The majority of the models we tested only required one step to connect and remove the car seat from its frame. This is an advantage for parents who are constantly on the move and don't have the time to play around with numerous steps. Some models, such as the Doona and the BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 Combo, have an attachment that requires pressing in place and then placing straps. This additional step increases the likelihood of the car seat being installed incorrectly. Some strollers were difficult to adjust the crotch and shoulder straps. Likewise, some buckles for car seats could be difficult to operate.