Choosing a Double Pram and Pushchair

A well-designed double pram or pushchair can simplify family life, especially on busy footpaths or in the shops and stores. Choose a model that has ample storage space for nappies, snacks, and other essentials.

Some first-time parents opt for an infant pushchair that can be used as a single pram once baby is born, and later converted into a twin mode once he or she is old enough. Joolz has a variety of options.

Tandem

The news that you're expecting a baby is one of the most exciting times in your life. Once the excitement has worn off and the reality of the situation kicks in, you will be faced with many options for how you can prepare your family. The best stroller or pram is among the most important things to consider.

Tandem prams, also referred as "in-line" double prams, are a classic style with two bassinets or chairs placed side by side. The front seat, which is typically cushioned, reclines flat and is suitable for infants. The second seat is a bit higher and designed to accommodate toddlers as young as 3 years old. Some models have reversible seating so you can 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 if you decide that your oldest child no longer needs the second seat.

In terms of price the tandem is cheaper than a twin pushchair, and can be an excellent choice for parents who want to save money, but not compromise on safety or function. However, the drawback of a tandem is that it could feel long and heavy to steer, particularly when moving up and down kerbs. It is generally less stable than a twin pram, especially if the child with the most weight is seated at the front. A tandem isn't always easy to fit on public transport, and it may be difficult to navigate narrow pavements.

The iCandy Peach is a popular image-conscious model that's a great choice for a single parent who is looking for something that is sleek however the tandem mode can make it feel heavy and long when pushing. It comes with a frame that expands in size to accommodate a second seat. It can be used with a variety of buggy seats, car seats, and carrycots (two at simultaneously or separately). The iCandy Wave tandem is another lightweight option that's easy-to-use and compatible with a range of car seats and carrycots.

Side by side

There are many things to consider when choosing a cheap double buggy pram or pushchair. There are many configuration options available, whether you're buying for twins or close-in-age siblings. Tandem prams, also referred to as side-by-side prams are popular options because they can be set up so that the infant can be seated in the bassinet on top while the older child or toddler is seated in the second seat.

Certain models come with reversible seats that allow you to customize the configuration for yout that they have to be capable of holding two or more children. The Graco Modes Nest2Grow convertible is an example of a very affordable convertible that is simple to use. However, our testers thought it was quite heavy for its price.

Some convertible double strollers like the Baby Jogger City Select 2 comes with a carrycot which is suitable for newborns. This reduces the size of the double stroller when not in use and makes it more compact. The City Select's clever single-handed folding impressed our testers, but it takes some practice. It is also quite fluid and agile even despite its size.

The Cybex Mockingbird single-to-double stroller is an alternative that is affordable. The seat can be converted from a parent facing infant car seat to an forward-facing toddler seat. The bassinet mode is a great choice for infants.

For greater flexibility, opt for a convertible that has dual modes like the iCandy Peach. This is a narrow double stroller double that can accommodate two children at the same time. It can be used to create a tandem by adding a second seat kit. It is responsive and nimble and our test participants loved its sleek design. It's not as light as the other pushchairs in our list however it does come with a large shopping basket which is ideal for parents with bags full of toys and groceries.

Lightweight

Convertible double strollers are a great alternative for parents who have a child and expect another. The iCandy Peach allows you to change from a single and double stroller pushchair to a double pushchair, with the addition of either an infant seat or the brand's optional carrycot (which is suitable for sleep overs). Our testers were pleased with the comfort of the seats and adore the fact that they both recline to different positions, have built-in leg and foot supports and large UPF 50+ canopies with windows that peek out. The rear seat can be raised high to allow the child of a higher age can stand on it to reach the basket of shopping.

The only drawback of the iCandy Peach is that it is quite heavy, however Cher found that it was overcome by how easy it is to manoeuvre and how spacious the storage is with two hanging child and parent cup holders with seat-back pockets as well as an enormous underseat basket. Cher also liked that seats can be flipped so that they face each other, which is perfect for siblings who love to chat and have conversations when they are out and out and about.

A lighter and equally impressive choice is the Delta Children LX side-by-side stroller that weighs only 18 pounds, is extremely compact and has a self-standing fold, making it easy to transport and put in your trunk or at home. Parents are impressed by the quality of materials and workmanship, and the affordable price. The only negatives are that the seats don't recline as much compared to other models we've tested and the rear seat isn't as visible due to its position - it is raised higher than the first seat.

The Joolz Geo 3 is another popular choice. It's slim, sleek, easy to steer and comes with a lifetime warranty. While they're smaller, side-by-side prams can still be larger than tandems and inline doubles. This makes them difficult to maneuver around busy footpaths and in shops. They are also shorter which makes them easier to maneuver in tight spaces.