Choosing a Double Pushchair With Car Seat
Double pushchairs are a great option for families with twins, or a toddler with a newborn. Double pushchairs can seat two children in one seat, and a carrycot can be added in the event of need.
They typically have a wide variety of seating options and can fit through most doorways/hallways. They're a bit bigger than side-by-side buggies, but they're more stable and can even be used on the kerbs.
Easy to Manoeuvre
When you are deciding on the ideal double pushchair for your family there are a few aspects you need to consider. First, you must 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 that comes with a car seat from a trusted 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 have fixed seats that are positioned side-by-side, and they are suitable for twins or children of different age. However, they tend to be wider than single pushchairs and might be difficult to fit through some doors or narrow roads. Additionally, they can also be heavy and long to push, especially when children are in car seats at the front.
Tandem buggies are more flexible, as they can be arranged in various ways. One or both seats can face forward or backwards. They tend to be more expensive than side-by-side pushchairs however they are more easy to manoeuvre and fold. Many of them have a large basket that can be used even when the seats are reclined fully.
A front wheel that locks is a further feature you should look for in a double pushchair. This will make it easier to negotiate tricky terrain and transitions and will ensure that your children are safe and secure. Check out the storage space and see if it is accessible. This can be beneficial in the event that you have to go through a lot of grocery shopping while having two children.
Find out how easy the buckles and straps are to operate when purchasing a double stroller with car seat. Some buckles are easy and only require one hand for operation however, others might require two hands to operate. Find out if the buckle has an adjustable strap that is padded for the crotch and an adjustable shoulder height. These features are vital to ensure your child's safety.
Folding is easy
When choosing a double pushchair with car seat, it is important to consider how easy it is to fold and put away. The top double strollers are swift and easy to fold down, even with children in each seat. They also fit into small spaces, making them perfect for city dwellers and parents with a limited amount of storage space.
There are two primary types of double pushchairs: side-by-side and tandem. Side-by-side strollers are generally smaller than single strollers, which makes them ideal for manoeuvring in narrow entranceways and narrow walkways. They can be heavy and long, which makes them difficult to climb up a hill or on kerbs. Some models come with a second seat under the chassis, which can be ideal for shopping or older children who want to sit up and explore.
Tandem pushchairs can be wider and longer than side-byside models. They are extremely flexible and can be adapted for use with most infant car seat. Some double buggy brands also offer a rumble-seat and a bassinet for growing families. Some of the top-rated double buggy brands provide an array of configurations.
The weight of the double buggy is important, particularly when it's being used for a baby in a carrycot. Some of the best double pushchairs come with a large capacity for both seats, and some even allow you to add a third seat on the frame (although this isn't recommended for all infants).
Be sure to look for features such as recline options, reversible seats and adjustable leg rests to help your kids get comfortable. Some of the best double pushchairs will also have a built-in tray for parents, which can be an ideal place to store your keys and mobile phone. They'll usually have at least two cup holders, and a spacious basket to stash everything you need to shop. Some models come with an adjustable foot rest and suspension to help push twins more easily particularly on uneven terrain.
Easy to store
If you are looking for an extra pushchair that is easy to store, choose one with a compact fold. They're typically a little bigger than single buggies but they are able to pass through standard doorways and take up less space in your car or boot. Some models include a carrying bag that makes storage simpler.
The UPPAbaby V2 Double is a fantastic alternative. The stroller has the side-by-side seating layout, with a variety of seating options, including two infant car seats. (Car seats and adapters are available separately) as well as a bassinet. It also comes with a large storage basket with UPF 50 and rain canopy, telescoping handlebar and comfortable seats. You can even add a riding board to allow a third child to take part in the fun.
There are a variety of other options to consider, too. 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 is required). It has a fantastic suspension and air-filled tyres, and can be used for jogging, which isn't always the case with double pushchairs. Some parents complain that the rumble seat's with padded backs aren't comfortable, and that the cup holders on the back of the seat are flimsy.
The Joovy Twin Xpand Car Seat Frame Double is a different excellent choice. It is similar to some of the more expensive award winners. It has a compact fold and accommodates both infant car seats as well as toddler seats that can be modified to act as bassinets, which is ideal for twins and children of different age groups. It can also hold the third child's seat, as well as an additional rumble seat.
A budget pick is the Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double, which is affordable and similar in design to some of our higher-end awards winners. It also comes with a third seat that can be paired with a rumble-seat (sold separately). It comes with an reclined, adjustable chairs as well as a cup holder for the parent. It has a limit on weight capacity of 50 pounds per seat, so it might not work for very tall children.
Comfortable seats
A quality double pushchair with car seat can provide comfortable seats for your children. The seats must be padded, and the harnesses should be easy to use. The straps should be easily adjustable for height and the buckles need not require two hands. They must be strong and durable enough to withstand the repeated use. If the buckles are difficult to operate, they may be unsafe and should be replaced. The seats should also be able to recline easily and come with UPF 50+ canopies with windows that can be seen through. The recline feature is used by young babies to nap or older toddlers to look around the world around them.
Tandem buggies usually start out as a single stroller and include adapters to add a second seat or infant car seat to the frame. They typically have a narrower footprint than side-by-side strollers however, they might be too large for some doorways. They are also heavy and difficult to move between kerbs.
On the other hand side-by-side buggies are typically smaller than tandem models. They are more user-friendly and can be adapted to older twins. However, they are expensive and might not be able to pass through all doors. The joovy double bundle is a good example of a model that can have seats that face each other either outwards or inwards. www.pushchairsandprams.uk is suitable for infant car seats, and comes with an infant bassinet.
The majority of the models we tested featured a one-step process for attaching and detaching the car seat from the frame. This is a huge plus for parents on moving and don't want to muddle through with multiple steps. Some models, like the Doona or the BOB Revo Flex 3.0 Combo, have an attachment with two steps, which involves clicking into place and then strapping on. This extra step increases the likelihood of the car seat being installed incorrectly. Some strollers were difficult to adjust the crotch or shoulder straps. Likewise, some buckles for car seats are difficult to operate.