Choosing a Double Pushchair With Car Seat
Double pushchairs are an ideal choice for families with twins, or a toddler with the infant. They are able to accommodate both children on one seat and can also be equipped with a carrycot added if needed.
They can be arranged in a variety of ways and fit through most hallways and doors. They are a bit longer than side by side buggies, but they're more robust and can be used on the kerbs.
Easy to manoeuvre
When you are deciding on the best double pushchair for your family there are some things you should consider. First, you should look at the size and weight of the pushchair, as well as its folding mechanism, wheels, and fabrications. If possible, try to purchase a double pushchair and car seat from a trusted brand to offer the best price for resales in the near future.
There are two primary types of double pushchairs: tandem and side by side. Side-by side buggies are designed with fixed seats that can be positioned side-by-side. They can be used for twins or children who are of different age. However, they tend to be wider than single pushchairs and can be difficult to squeeze through some doors or down narrow pathways. They can also be heavy and difficult to push, especially when the children in the car seats are at the front.
Tandem buggies are usually more flexible, as they come with a range of seating configurations with the option to have both of the seats facing in the direction of forward or backwards. They're generally more expensive than side-by-side pushchairs, but they can be easier to manoeuvre and fold. Many of them have an enormous basket that can be used even when the seats are fully reclined.
Another crucial aspect to take into consideration is whether the double pushchair comes with a front wheel that is locked. This will allow you to navigate difficult terrain and changes, while also ensuring that your little ones remain safe and comfortable. You should also look at the amount of storage space that is available and if it is easily accessible, as this can be extremely useful if you have a lot of shopping to complete with two kids.
If you are considering purchasing a double pushchair that comes with a car seat, you should be sure to check how it is easy to use the buckles and straps. Some buckles are easy and only require one hand for operation, while others may require two hands for operation. It is important to know if the model has an upholstered crotch strap or the ability to adjust the height of the strap on the shoulder as these are crucial for keeping your child safe.
Easy to fold
When choosing a double pushchair and car seat, it is important to think about how easy it will be to fold and put away. Even with a child in every seat, the best double strollers fold up quickly and easily. They are also compact, making them ideal for city living or parents with a 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, which makes them ideal for maneuvering in narrow doorways and narrow walkways. However, they can be long and heavy, which means they can be difficult to get up hills or onto kerbs. Some models have an additional seat beneath the chassis, which can be useful for shopping or older children who want to sit up and explore.
Tandem pushchairs tend to be wider than side-by-side models, and they can be quite long as well. However, all terrain double buggy are incredibly adaptable and can be made to work with most infant car seats. Certain double buggy brands provide a rumble-seat as well as bassinets for families growing. The top-rated double buggy brands can offer an array of designs, and some even have seats that are reversible, allowing you to change the seating direction according to your preferences.
The weight of the double buggy is important, especially if it's going to be used by a baby in a carrycot. Some of the best double strollers have ample capacity for both seats and some let you add an extra seat on the frame.
Be sure to look for features such as recline options, reversible seating and adjustable leg rests to help your children get comfortable. Some of the best double strollers will have an integrated tray for parents, which can be a great place to store your keys and phone. Most double pushchairs have at least two cupholders, and a large basket for all your items. There are models that have suspension and a foot break that can make pushing the twins a lot easier, particularly over uneven terrain.
Easy to store
If you want an extra pushchair that is easy to store, look for one with a compact fold. These are usually a bit wider than single buggies but they can be pushed through doors of standard size and take up less space in your car or boot. Some models include a carrying bag that makes storage easier.
A great choice is the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double. It has a side-by-side seat layout and offers multiple seating configurations with two infant car seats (car seats and adapters are sold separately), as well as a bassinet attachment. It also comes with a large storage basket, rain and UPF 50 canopy, telescoping handlebar and comfortable seats. You can even include a riding board to let a third child join in on the fun.
There are many other options. The Jeep-branded TwinRoo+ is a good choice for outdoor lovers because it can be used as a double or single buggy with a pair of Rumble seats (extra kit required). It has great suspension and air-filled tyres, and can be used for running, which isn't always the case with double pushchairs. Some parents complain that the rumble seats aren't comfortable, and that the cup holders on the seatback aren't very sturdy.
The Joovy Twin Xpand Car Seat Frame Double is a different excellent choice. It's similar in style to some of the top award winners. It folds compactly and can be used with infant car seats and toddler seats that can be modified to function as bassinets making it ideal for twins or kids of different ages. It can hold an additional child seat and an additional rumble seat.
A good option for budget-conscious buyers is the Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double, which is affordable and similar in design to some our top awards winners. It also has an additional seat that can be added by a rumble-seat (sold separately). It has reclined, adjustable chairs as well as a cup holder for the parent. It has a 50-pound weight limit per seat. This means that it is not suitable for tall children.
Comfortable seats
A double pushchair that is well-designed and has a car seat can provide comfortable seats for your children. The seats should be cushioned, and the harnesses should be easy to use. The straps must be easy to adjust for height and the buckles should not require two hands to fasten. They should be durable enough to withstand the repeated use. If the buckles can be difficult to operate, it could be dangerous. They must be replaced. The seats should also be comfortable to recline and come with UPF 50+ canopies that have peekaboo windows. The recline feature can be used by babies to sleep or older toddlers to take in the world around them.
Tandem buggies typically start as a single buggy and include adapters to add a second seat or infant car seat to the frame. They usually have a smaller footprint than side-by-side strollers, however they could be too wide for some doors. They are also heavy and difficult to move between kerbs.
Side-by-side buggies, on the contrary, are typically smaller than tandem models. They are easier for twins to maneuver and can also 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 two-by-side model that can be set up with the seats facing towards either facing each other or in the direction of forward. It can be used with car seats for infants and comes with a bassinet, too.
The majority of the models that we tested only required one step to connect and detach the car seat from its frame. This is a huge benefit for parents who are on the move who don't want to muddle through by completing numerous steps. Some models, such as the Doona and the BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 Combo, have a two-step attachment that involves clicking in place and putting on straps. This extra step increases the likelihood of the car seat being installed incorrectly. Some strollers were difficult to adjust the crotch or shoulder straps, and some buckles for car seats could be difficult to operate.