Choosing a Double Pushchair With Car Seat
Double pushchairs are perfect for families with twins or an infant and toddler. Double pushchairs can accommodate two children in one chair and a carrycot may be added if needed.
They typically have a wide number of seating configurations and can fit through most hallways or doors. They're a bit larger than side-by-side buggies, but are more stable and can be used on kerbs.
Easy to Manoeuvre
When you are deciding on the most suitable double pushchair for your family, there are a few aspects you should consider. You should first consider the weight and size and also the mechanism used to fold the buggy wheels, as well as its construction. If you are able, buy a double stroller with car seat made by a reputable manufacturer. This will guarantee the best resale price in the future.
There are two types of double pushchairs: tandem as well as side-by-side. Side-by-side buggies come with fixed seats that can be set side-by-side. They are suitable for twins or children who are different age. They are a bit wider than single pushchairs, and can be difficult to fit through doors or narrow pathways. Additionally, they can be a bit long and heavy to push, especially when children are in car seats in the front.
Tandem buggies are generally more versatile as they offer a range of seating configurations with the option to have both of the seats facing forward or backwards. They are more expensive than side by side pushchairs, however they are more convenient to fold and maneuver. Many also come with large shopping baskets that can be used even when the seats are in a fully reclined position.
Another crucial aspect to take into consideration is whether the double pushchair has an locking front wheel. This will help you navigate difficult terrain and transitions, while also making sure your children are safe and comfortable. Look at the storage space and determine if it is accessible. This will be useful when you have to do lots of grocery shopping with two kids.
When you are buying a double pushchair with car seat, you must be sure to check how it is easy to use the buckles and straps. Some buckles are simple and only require one hand for operation, while others can be more complicated and require two hands. this link is important to know whether the model comes with a padded crotch strap and shoulder height strap adjustment, as these features are essential for keeping your child secure.
Easy to fold
It is important to consider how easy it is to fold and store a double pushchair that includes a car seat. Even with children in every seat, the most efficient double strollers collapse quickly and easily. They also fit into small spaces, making them perfect for city living and for parents with limited storage space.
There are two types of double pushchairs - tandem and side-by-side. Side-by-side buggys tend to be narrower than single strollers, making them ideal for manoeuvring in tight doorways and narrow walkways. However, they can be long and heavy, which means they can be difficult to push up hills or on the kerbs. Certain models include an additional seat in the undercarriage, which is great to shop or for children who prefer to sit and watch their surroundings.
Tandem pushchairs tend to be wider than side-by-side models and can be quite long as well. They are extremely versatile and can be made to use with any infant car seat. Some also have the option of a rumble-seat and bassinet attachment for families that are growing. The top rated double buggy brands can offer a huge range of designs, and some even have seats that can be reversible so you can alter the seating direction to suit your preferences.
Another thing to consider is the weight of your double buggy, particularly when you're trying to find one that can fit a newborn in a carrycot. Some of the top double strollers have ample capacity for both seats, and some allow you to add an additional seat to the frame.
To ensure your child is comfortable, you should look for features like reversible seats or recline options, as well as adjustable legrests. Some of the best double strollers will have a tray for parents built-in and is a great place to store your keys and phone. They'll usually have at least two cup holders, and an ample basket to store all your shopping. There are models that have a foot break and suspension which makes pushing the twins much more comfortable, especially over bumpy terrain.
Easy to store
Find double strollers that fold compactly. They are typically a little larger than single buggies, but they can be pushed through doors of standard size and take less space in your boot or car. Some models include a carrying bag to make storage easier.
An excellent option is the UPPAbaby Vista Double. This stroller has a side-by-side seat layout and offers multiple seating configurations that include two infant car seats (car seats and adapters are sold separately), as well as an attachment for a bassinet. It also comes with a huge storage basket, rain and UPF 50 canopies, telescoping handlebar, and comfortable seats. You can also add a riding platform to allow a third child take part in the fun.
There are plenty of other options to consider too. Jeep's TwinRoo+ is an excellent choice for those who love to go outdoors because it can be used either as an individual buggy or double buggy. It has great suspension and air-filled tyres. It can even be modified to running, which isn't often the case with double pushchairs. Some parents complain that the rumble seat's aren't supportive, and that the cup holders on the seatback are flimsy.
Another excellent choice is another option is the Joovy Twin Xpand Car Seat Frame Double, which is similar in design to some of our higher-end award winners. It is compact and can be used to accommodate infant car seats as well as toddler car seats that can be converted to bassinets. This makes it perfect for twins and children of different ages. It can even hold an additional seat using an additional rumble seat (sold separately).
A good option for budget-conscious buyers is the Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double, which is affordable and similar in design to some our more expensive awards winners. It can also accommodate three seats with an rumble seat (sold separately) and features an adjustable, reclining seats and a parent cup holder. It only has a weight limit of 50 pounds per seat. This means it is not suitable for tall children.
Comfortable seats
A double pushchair that also includes a car seat is a good choice for children. The seats must be padded, and the harnesses should be easy to use. The straps must be easy to adjust for height, and the buckles shouldn't require two hands to fasten. They must be durable and strong enough to withstand repeated use. If the buckles are difficult to operate, they could be unsafe and must be replaced. The seats should be capable of recline and have generous UPF 50+ canopy with windows that can be seen through. The recline feature is used by young babies to nap or older toddlers to observe the world around them.
Tandem buggies are generally built as a single buggy, but have adapters that let you add a second seat. They usually have a smaller footprint than side-by-side strollers, however they could be too large for certain doorways. They can also be very heavy, and are generally difficult to maneuver over and down kerbs.
Side-by-side buggies on the other hand, tend to be smaller than tandem models. They are more comfortable for twins to handle and can accommodate older siblings. They are more expensive and may not be able to pass through all doors. The joovy qool double-bundle is an example of a side-by-side model that can be configured with the seats facing into each other or forward. It can be used with car seats for infants and comes with a bassinet, too.
Most of the models we tested featured a one-step procedure for attaching and removing the car seat from the frame. This is an enormous benefit for parents who are constantly on the move and don't want to muddle through by completing multiple steps. Certain models, like the Doona and the BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 Combo, have a two-step attachment that involves pressing in place and then putting on straps. This additional step increases the likelihood of the car seat being fitted incorrectly. Some strollers were difficult to adjust the crotch or shoulder straps, and a few car seat buckles could be difficult to operate.