What to Look For in a Double Travel Buggy

A side-by-side double that has a compact footprint (for narrow doors and public transport). Add seats or carrycots (with adaptors) to increase the frame's capacity for weight for children weighing up to 50lbs.

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 wider than single models - particularly when they're side-by-side buggies like the Kolcraft Geo 3 and UPPAbaby Vista 2. This extra width enables them to take on heavier children without straining their chassis. Other features that make them stand out: large pop-out canopy that come with SPF 50 protection and large peekaboo windows with swivel lock front wheels to assist in navigating tight spaces such as shopping aisles, a cup holder for one parent, and a clever fold mechanism that is one-handed. The 10-inch wheels aren't built for rough terrain but can handle city streets and theme park rides quite well.

In terms of price tags these kinds of lightweight buggies that are side-by-side are quite affordable.

Weight

The heavier the double buggy the more easy it is to lift and maneuver. The Joie Evalite Duo, which is the most lightweight of our Lab tests, is a great choice if weight is an issue. It's still loaded with plenty of features including the large pop-out canopy, SPF50 and peekaboo window and a quick-release folding system that can be folded flat in a matter of seconds, four-wheel suspension for rough terrain and a swivel wheels on the front, which makes it easy to maneuver narrow aisles of supermarkets and stores. It's priced at just over $1000 It's also a great value stroller. 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 baby and toddler. The narrow tandem buggies are ideal for navigating tight spaces, while side-byside models ensure that your children are properly cared for and allow you to keep an eye on them as you go to the grocery store or park. There are many buggies that come with a selection of seating options, so you can adapt to your child's needs as they grow. Some offer the option of adding an extra 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 let you change from single to double push chair in a matter of seconds. It also comes with a spacious pop-out UPF 50+ sunshade canopy with adjustable leg rests as well as peekaboo windows on both seats; the standing fold is quick and easy to do with one hand; and a top-quality suspension that makes light work of rough terrain.

Tri-fold buggies, such as the iCandy Peach are another versatile option. Their slim frames are ideal for narrow aisles and doors and they can comfortably accommodate twins or even a baby and an adult due to the addition of UPPAbaby's "PiggyBack' board (which is available separately). They offer a generous basket and come with all the accessories you may need, including rain covers and liners.

Tandem buggies usually have your children seated together, which can make them easier to push and more stable on uneven surfaces but they can be difficult to maneuver up and down kerbs. They usually have a wider footprint than a single-seater pushchair, and may be a bit too long for getting through doors.

Comfort

This is one of the most comfortable lightweight doubles that we have examined. It features stadium-style seating on both seats, ensuring that your children can enjoy the view. It also comes with a large UPF 50+ canopy with windows that peek out, an upholstered toddler seat with an RumbleSeat with built-in, adjustable foot and leg rests and cups holder for a single parent. Testers love the way that the seats recline individually by squeezing a lever under each seat, and also say that the straps are simple to fasten and unfasten using just one hand. It's also easy to fold, thanks to a twist mechanism on the handle, making it as easy as is possible and can be stored with the backrest up for easy access.

This is a great option for families who want to develop with their children. It comes in 30 different configurations. It can accommodate twins with a toddler as well as three children when you add an 'PiggyBack Board'. The spacious basket and the soft suspension makes it suitable for kerbs, as well as in the city. It's also reasonably priced. BabyGearLab recommends it for children up to six years old.