Choosing a double pram and pushchair [This Internet page]

A double pram can simplify life for families, particularly in bustling stores or on busy streets. Find a model that has ample storage space for nappies, snacks and other essentials.

Some first-time parents opt for a future proof pushchair that can be used as a single stroller when baby is born, and later converted into a twin mode once he or she is old enough. Joolz offers a variety of these options.

Tandem

The announcement that you are expecting a baby is one of life's most exciting moments. Once the excitement has worn off and the reality of the situation begins to set in, you will have to make a number of choices regarding how you can prepare your family. The right pram or stroller is one of the most important considerations.

Tandem prams, also known as "in-line" double prams, are a classic design with two seats or bassinets placed side-by-side. The front seat, which is usually padded, reclines flat and is suitable for infants. The second seat is a bit higher and is designed to accommodate toddlers as young as 3 years old. Some models let you decide if your children will look at each other or look outwards. Many tandems can be made into one pushchair when your oldest child is no longer using the second seat.

In terms of cost it is cheaper than a twin pushchair and can be an excellent choice for parents who want to save money but not compromising on safety or function. A tandem can be a bit heavy and difficult to steer, particularly when negotiating kerbs. It is also less stable than twin prams especially when a bigger child is in the front. A tandem can also be tricky to get onto public transport, and it can be difficult to maneuver on narrow pavements.

The iCandy Peach, a popular model with a focus on image, is an excellent choice for parents with one child who want an attractive design. However the tandem mode makes it feel long and heavy to push. It's got a frame that expands in size to accommodate a second seat. It can be used with a range of combinations of buggy seats, car seats and carrycots (two at one time or in separate). The iCandy Wave is another lightweight tandem option that is easy to use and compatible with a variety of car seats and carrycots.

Side by side

There are many things to think about when selecting a double pushchair or pram. There are numerous 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 a popular choices due to the fact that they can be set up so that the infant can sit in the bassinet on top while the toddler or older child is seated in the second seat.

Some models have reversible seating which allow you to alter the seating arrangement for your family members throughout the infant and toddler years. This lets you see your children at all times, and allows them to be a part of the journey while they walk.

Tandem prams can be jogging buggies or all-terrain buggies. They are perfect for outdoor excursions, such as to the park. They are also great for narrow aisles and checkouts in supermarkets and shops, as they are less bulky.

The Redsbaby JIVE3 pram for example, can be used in tandem mode from birth, but with the addition of an Rumble seat. (PS249) It is then possible to switch to the single to double stroller mode once your baby is old enough to leave the rumble seat, or use the adaptors for car capsules (PS53) to transform it into a travel system for newborn to toddler.

Another option is the Side by Side Pram from Babybee. The side-by-side double pram is available in a variety of colors and features a beautiful modern style. It is designed to be used from birth, you can include the LUNA Cocoon for newborns (PS262) and the LUNA Infant Seats (PS53 each).

The Egg 2 is a stylish sleek pushchair that can be transformed into a double side by side. It's available in a variety of infant seats and carrycots to accommodate twins or siblings with different ages. It's also incredibly easy to collapse. It's also relatively lightweight making it an ideal choice for families with smaller cars or a limited storage space.

Convertible

The best travel double stroller double pushchairs or prams can be set up to accommodate your changing needs. There is the possibility of fitting two toddlers in the seats or a third child on the seat board and have enough space for a shopping basket and the capability to add accessories such as rain covers is a advantage. In general, convertible double pram buggy strollers are more spacious and heavier than single pushchairs because they have to be able to accommodate two or more children. The Graco Modes Nest2Grow convertible is an example of a very affordable convertible that is easy to use. However, our test participants considered it to be a bit heavy for the price.

Some double strollers that convert into convertibles, such as the Baby Jogger City Select 2 have a carrycot that is suitable for infants. This allows the double stroller to be folded down and reduced in size when it is not used. The City Select's innovative folding system that is one-handed impressed our test subjects however it requires some time to master. It also feels quite nimble and responsive, despite it being bigger than other double strollers double.

Another option that is reasonably priced is the Cybex Mockingbird Single-to-Double Stroller. It can be converted from a parent-facing infant car seat to a forward-facing toddler car seat, and the bassinet mode is a great choice for infants (although keep in mind that infants under four months old shouldn't be able to sleep in strollers due to the risk of positional asphyxia).

If you're looking to expand your options look into a convertible with dual modes like the iCandy Peach. This is a narrow double buggy that can hold two children in a row and can be used as a tandem, with the addition of a second-seat kit and rider board. It's nimble and responsive and our test participants loved its sleek design. It's not as light as the other pushchairs we've reviewed, but it offers an ample shopping basket that is ideal for parents with bags full of toys and groceries.

Lightweight

Some parents want to ensure the future of their double buggy when they have a child and are expecting another so a convertible option is an excellent choice. The iCandy Peach can be converted from a single pushchair into double with the addition of a toddler seat or the brand's carrycot (which is ideal for sleeping at night). Our testers were pleased with how comfortable the seats are and adore the fact that they both recline to multiple positions, have built-in leg and foot support and large UPF 50+ canopy that has peekaboo windows. The rear seat can be raised to allow the child of a higher age can stand on it to reach the shopping basket.

The only issue with the iCandy Peach is that it is quite heavy, but Cher felt it was overcome by the ease to manoeuvre and how spacious the storage is equipped with two hanging child and parent cup holders as well as seat-back pockets, and an enormous underseat basket. Cher also loved that the seats can be reversed so that they face each other, which is great for siblings who like to interact and talk when they are out and out and about.

The Delta Children LX Side-by-Side Stroller is a less heavy option however, it is still awe-inspiring. It weighs just 18 pounds, is lightweight and features a self standing fold, making it easy to transport or put in your trunk. Parents love the quality of materials and workmanship, as well as the cost. 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 due to its location as it is higher than the seat in front.

Another popular choice is the Joolz Geo 3, which is slim and sleek. It is also easy to steer, and comes with an attractive design and lifetime guarantee. It is important to remember that, despite their smaller size Side by side prams are more spacious than tandem and in-line doubles. They may be difficult to navigate through crowded footpaths or in shops. However, they are often smaller, and can be more maneuverable in tight spaces than tandems.