Choosing a Double Pram and Pushchair

A double pram can simplify life for families, particularly in busy shopping centers or on busy streets. Select a model that offers ample storage space for nappies, snacks, and other necessities.

Some parents who are first-time parents opt for a future-proof pushchair that can be used as a single stroller at the time baby is born, and then changed to a twin mode when the baby is born. Joolz offers a range of choices.

Tandem

The news that you're about to have a baby is one of the most exciting events in your life. However, after the excitement of the beginning fades and reality begins to sink in, you may be faced with a variety of decisions about how to prepare your family for the arrival of your little one or ones. The right pram or stroller double is one of the most crucial considerations.

Tandem prams, also referred to as "in-line" double prams are a classic design with two bassinets or seats placed side-by-side. The front seat is usually covered in padding and reclines to a flat position making it suitable for infants while the second one is more upright and can accommodate toddlers from around three years of age. Some models have the option of reversible seating, which lets you choose whether your children face each other or look out at you. A lot of tandems offer the option of being converted into a single pushchair in the event that you decide that your oldest child does not require the second seat.

In terms of cost it is cheaper than a twin pushchair, and can be a great choice for parents who want to save money, but not compromise on safety or convenience. A tandem can be a bit heavy and difficult to steer, particularly when negotiating the kerbs. It is also less stable than twin pushchairs, especially if an older child is in the front. A tandem can be difficult to transport on public transport and is difficult to maneuver on narrow roads.

The iCandy Peach is a popular model with a strong image that's a great option for a single parent who wants something streamlined however the tandem mode can make it feel large and heavy when pushing. It's got a frame that expands in width to accommodate the second seat. It can be used with a variety of combinations of car seats, buggy seats, and carrycots (two at a time or separately). The iCandy Wave tandem is another lightweight option that's user-friendly and compatible with a variety of carrycots or car seats.

Side by side

When it comes time to choose a double pushchair or pram there's a lot to consider. Whether you're buying for twins or other siblings that are similar in age, there are a number of configuration options to take into account. Tandem prams (also called side by side prams) are a popular choice because they can be arranged to accommodate infants in a bassinet on the top, while the larger toddler or infant sits in the lower seat below.

Some models come with seats that can be reversible, meaning you can adapt the configuration to suit your family's needs throughout the baby and toddler years. This lets you keep your little ones in sight at all times and also gives them the chance to get to know each other while they walk.

Tandem prams are jogging buggies as well as all-terrain buggies. They are perfect for trips outdoors, such as to the park. They're also ideal for narrow aisles and checkouts in shops and supermarkets, as they are more compact.

The Redsbaby JIVE3 Pram, for instance can be used as a tandem pram from birth in the dual mode by adding the use of the rumble seat (PS249). Then, you can change to a single pram mode when your little one grows out of the rumble seat, or use the car capsule adaptors (PS53) to transform it into a travel system from infant to toddler.

The Side by Side Pram made by Babybee is another option. This side-by-side double pram is available in a variety of colors and comes with an elegant modern design. The design is intended to be used from birth, you can also add the LUNA newborn cocoon (PS262) or the LUNA infant seats (PS53 each) to ensure your baby is secure and comfortable.

The Egg 2 is a stylish sleek pushchair that is able to be converted into a double side-byside. It's available in a variety of infant and carrycots to accommodate twins or siblings with different age groups. It's also incredibly easy to collapse. It's also relatively lightweight and therefore a great choice for those who have small cars or only a little storage space.

Convertible

The top double prams and pushchairs are able to be used in multiple ways, and some are even able to change into different seating configurations to meet the changing needs of your family. It is possible to fit two toddlers in seats or a third child on the seat board and have enough space for a basket to store your shopping, and the ability to add accessories like rain covers is also a advantage. In general, convertible double strollers are bigger and heavier than single pushchairs due to the fact that they are required to be able to hold two or more children. The Graco Modes Nest2Grow convertible is an example of a very inexpensive convertible that is very easy to use. However, our testers found it to be somewhat heavy for the money.

Some double strollers that convert into convertibles, such as the Baby Jogger City Select 2 come with a carrycot suitable for newborns. This reduces the size of the double stroller when not being used and makes it more compact. The City Select's clever folding system that is one-handed impressed our testers but it does require some time to master. It also feels quite nimble and agile, despite being larger than double strollers.

The Cybex Mockingbird single-to-Luxury Double Stroller stroller is another affordable option. The seat can be transformed from a parent-facing infant car seat to a forward-facing toddler seat. The bassinet feature makes it a great option for infants.

If you're looking for more flexibility look into a convertible with dual modes such as the iCandy Peach. It's a small stokke double stroller buggy that can hold two children in a row however it can also be used as a tandem, with the addition of a second seat kit and rider board. It's responsive and agile, and our testers liked its sleek design. It's not as light as the other models we've reviewed, but it comes with a big basket that's ideal for parents who have to carry bags filled with toys and food items.

Lightweight

Convertible double strollers are an excellent alternative for parents who have a child and expect the arrival of a second. The iCandy Peach can be converted from a single pushchair to a double with the addition of a toddler's seat or the brand's carrycot (which is ideal to sleep at night). The seats are extremely comfortable and our testers appreciate that they can recline in multiple positions. They also appreciate the design of the canopy, which has an open window that can be seen from afar and has UPF 50+ protection. The rear seat can also be raised to provide an elevated platform for a child to climb off and on, so they can access items in the basket of groceries.

The only downside to the iCandy Peach is that it is quite heavy, however Cher found that this was balanced by the ease to maneuver and how large the storage space is, with two hanging child and parent cup holders, seat-back pockets and a large underseat basket. Cher also liked that the seats can be turned so that they face each other. This is perfect for siblings who love to interact and talk when out and about.

The Delta Children LX Side-by-Side Stroller is a less heavy option, but still impressive. It weighs just 18 pounds, is lightweight and features an auto-standing fold, making it simple to transport or store in your trunk. Parents appreciate the high-quality materials and workmanship, as well as the low price. The only drawbacks are that the seats don't recline as much as other models we've tried and the rear seat isn't as visible because of its position - it is raised higher than the front seat.

Another popular choice is the Joolz Geo 3, which is slim, sleek and easy to steer, with an appealing design and a lifetime guarantee. It's important to keep in mind that despite their narrower design side by side prams are still wider than tandem and in-line doubles. They can be difficult to navigate on busy streets or in shops. They're also shorter, making them easier to maneuver in tight spaces.