What to Look For in a Double Travel Buggy
A compact side-by-side that has an extremely small footprint (for use in public transport and narrow doors). Add seats or a carrycot (with adaptors) to increase the size of the frame for kids up to 50 lbs per seat.
Budget double with back and front suspension for uneven surfaces. Large storage basket, padded handlebars, and large storage basket.
Size
In general double pushchairs are generally wider than single models - particularly when they're side by side buggies, like the Kolcraft Geo 3 and UPPAbaby Vista 2. The good thing is that this extra width enables them to handle heavier children without straining the chassis. They also come with other key features that make them stand out, such as large pop-out canopy sizes with SPF 50 and peekaboo windows as well as swivel lock front tires that help navigate tight spots such as aisles for shopping; a one-parent cup holder and a smart fold mechanism that can be done by one hand; and 10 inch back wheels that aren't built for rough terrain but can are able to handle city streets and theme parks fairly well.
In terms of price tags these kinds of lightweight, side-by-side buggies are surprisingly affordable.
Weight
The lighter the double buggy, the easier it is to lift and maneuver. The Joie Evalite Duo, which is the most lightweight of our Lab tests, is an excellent choice if weight is an issue. It's got plenty of features like the large pop-out canopy, SPF50 and peekaboo window as well as a quick-release folding mechanism that can be folded flat in just a few seconds with four-wheel suspension to handle rough terrain and a swivel wheels on the front, which allows you to maneuver tight shops and supermarket aisles. It's also extremely affordable at over PS1,000. It can also carry twins or a baby and toddler with the purchase of an additional'sidepack'.
Flexibility
A well-designed double buggy can provide a lot of flexibility, no matter if you have twins or an infant and a toddler. Buggies with narrow tandems are ideal for fitting through narrow spaces, while side by side models will keep your children well-cared for and help you to keep an eye on them while you navigate the supermarket or park. There are many buggies that come with a selection of seating options which allows you to alter them as your children grow, and some even come with the option of adding a ride-on board or car seat.
The Joie Evalite Duo is a perfect example. It can accommodate two seats or a car seat and its adaptors that are easy to use allow you to change from a single seat to a double in seconds. It also comes with a large pop-out UPF 50+ sunshade that can be used as a canopy, adjustable leg rests and windows that peek out from both seats as well as the standing fold is simple and quick to fold with just one hand; and a premium suspension that can take care of rough terrain.
Tri-fold buggies, such as the iCandy Peach are another versatile choice. Their slim frames are ideal for narrow aisles and doors, while they can easily hold twins or a baby and even a large child thanks to the addition of UPPAbaby's "PiggyBack board (which you buy separately). The basket is large and comes with all the extras like raincovers and liner.
Tandem buggies typically have your children seated side-by-side, which can make them easier to push and more robust on uneven surfaces but they can be difficult to maneuver between kerbs. They are larger than a one-seater and can be too big to pass through doorways.
Comfort
One of the most comfortable, lightweight doubles we've tested, this buggy features seats that are elevated to the level of stadium seats, so your kids can enjoy the view; large UPF 50+ canopy with peekaboo windows; a padded toddler seat and add-on RumbleSeat that has adjustable legs and foot rests; and a single-parent cup holder. Testers are awestruck by the way the seats recline individually by squeezing an adjustable lever underneath each seat. They also note that the straps are simple to fasten and unfasten using just one hand. The handle is easy to turn, making it simple to fold. It also stores with the backrest raised for easy access.
With 30 different configurations (it'll carry twins as well as a toddler and baby or three kids with the addition of a 'PiggyBack' Board) it's a great choice for families who are looking to expand with their child. The spacious basket and the soft suspension make it ideal for kerbs as well as for use in cities. It's also a great value. pushchairs double recommends this product for children ages 0-6. of six.