What to Look For in a Double Travel Buggy
A compact side-by-side that has tiny footprint (for use in public transport and narrow doorways). Add carrycots or seats (with adaptors), to increase the frame's capacity for weight for children up to 50 lbs.
A great barebones budget double with rear and front suspension to make light work of uneven surfaces, a large storage basket and padded handlebar for parents of different heights.
Size
In general double pushchair s are generally wider than single models, especially when they're side by side buggies, like the Kolcraft Geo 3 and UPPAbaby Vista 2. This extra width lets them to carry heavier children without straining their chassis. They also have other important characteristics that make them stand out, including large pop-out canopy sizes with SPF 50 and peekaboo windows as well as swivel lock front tires which help navigate narrow spots such as shopping aisles; cups with a single parent holder, an innovative fold mechanism that can be done one-handed; and 10-inch back wheels that aren't designed for tough terrain but manage city streets and theme parks fairly well.
In terms of cost, these types of lightweight buggies that are side-by-side are quite affordable.
Weight
The lighter a double buggy is, the easier it is to move and lift. 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 including a large pop-out canopy with SPF50 and peekaboo window and a quick-release folding system that can be stowed flat in seconds with four-wheel suspension to handle rough terrain and a swivel wheel at the front that makes it easy to maneuver narrow aisles of supermarkets and stores. It's also super-affordable at just over a thousand dollars. It can also carry twins or a baby and toddler with the purchase of an additional'sidepack'.
Flexibility
A double buggy is a great option for parents with twins or even a toddler and baby. Narrow tandem buggies can be used to squeeze into tight spaces. Side-by-side models allow you to keep the eye on your children and keep them safe when you're out at the grocery store or in the park. Many also have a wide variety of seat configurations that allow you to modify the seat as your children grow, and some even offer the option of adding a ride-on board or car seat.
The Joie Evalite duo is a perfect illustration. It can be used to hold two seats, or even a car seat. The adaptors allow you to convert from a single seat to a double seat in a matter of seconds. It also comes with a large pop-out UPF 50+ sunshade canopy, adjustable leg rests and peekaboo windows on both seats and an easy standing fold that is quick and easy to do using just one hand; and a high-quality suspension that makes light work of rough terrain.
The iCandy Peach tri-fold buggy is another alternative. They are perfect for navigating narrow aisles and doors. They also can easily accommodate twins or a child and a larger child with the addition of UPPAbaby’s"PiggyBack" board (which is available separately). They offer a generous basket, and come with all the extras you might require, including liners and rain covers.
Tandem buggies typically have children seated side-by-side, which can make them easier to push and more sturdy on uneven surfaces, but they can be difficult to maneuver up and down kerbs. They have a bigger footprint than a single seater and can be too long to fit through doorways.
Comfort
This is one of the most comfortable, lightweight doubles we've examined. It has stadium-style seating on both seats, ensuring that your children can take in the view. It also comes with a large UPF 50+ canopy with a the peek-a-boo window, and a cushioned toddler seat that includes an add-on RumbleSeat that has built-in adjustable foot and leg rests and a cup holder for a single parent. Testers are awestruck by the way that the seats recline by pushing the levers under each seat. They also note that the straps are easy to unfasten and fasten with just one hand. The handle is easy to twist, making it simple to fold. It also stores with the backrest up to make it easy to access.
With 30 different configurations (it'll carry twins or a toddler and a baby or three kids with the addition of a 'PiggyBack' Board) This is a great choice for families who want the flexibility to grow with their child. The spacious basket and soft suspension makes it suitable for kerbs as well as for use in cities. It's also a great value. BabyGearLab recommends this to children up to the age of six.