Guide To Pram Double: The Intermediate Guide For Pram Double
Buying a Convertible Single to Double Stroller
There are few things more exciting than hearing that you're expecting your second child. However, preparing your family for this new addition has its own set of challenges.
One of them is choosing the best travel pushchair double pram for your needs. This article will cover the different options available and also provide tips to help you choose the right pram for your growing family.
Convertible double prams
If you're looking for a pram that can grow with your family, a convertible single double pram is a great alternative. These innovative frames, such as the Cybex Aton 4 Twin, can be extended in width to accommodate a second seat. They will typically have the option of an additional shopping basket or even two car seats or carrycots (with upper adapters and lower adapters readily available) so that you can begin your family with just one buggy, and later upgrade to twins without having to purchase a new pram once more. They usually offer more configuration and seating options for both children than other styles of double prams, and will offer better weight distribution, so they're often easier to manoeuvre. Pros: Simple to use compact and flexible. Cons: Less space and storage space for both children compared to other designs.
Tandem (in-line) double prams
As the name implies, tandem prams come with two seats or pram bassinets that are aligned one ahead of the other. Tandem prams are generally narrower than side-by-side double prams and can be easier to maneuver through doors and on public transport. They don't offer the same amount of storage space and are difficult to access when both seats are in use, especially when your child is sitting in the front.
Some parents who are new to parenting opt for a tandem pram sets to future-proof their investment, especially when they're planning to have more children close in age. A popular example is our DUO2 pram that is initially designed as a single stroller and can be upgraded to a twin stroller by the addition of the second seat. It also converts back into a single pram when your older child is no longer able to use it.
Tandem prams are available in a variety of configurations and include the option for infants to be placed in a pram bassinet on top while an older child is seated in the seat below. Most tandem prams can be made an a travel system by putting a car capsule in the top prams seat.
To give you the maximum flexibility, a double side-by-side pram lets both kids take a ride together and play as they go. This will help prevent them from fighting or getting up.
A side-by-side is also an ideal option for grandparents looking to join in on the fun - they can push both kids around and help out with shopping, running errands and attending events. They're often less expensive than a tandem pram, so they can be a great way to introduce grandkids to babysitting duties.
Single prams
A single pram with car seat can only allow one seat or bassinet/carry-cot. It is usually suitable from birth up to around. 4 years of age. Many single prams also allow for a toddler board to be connected to the back so that a second child can sit or stand (depending on the type of toddler board) while you push the stroller forward.
Some first-time parents choose to future-proof their pram by purchasing a double pram option, such as our DUO2. This means you'll use the pram in a single mode while you have a single child, and then switch it into a tandem double pram after baby number two arrives. This saves you the cost and stress of purchasing a separate double pram.
Tandem or in-line double prams are bigger than side-by-side double prams, yet they are easier to maneuver on crowded footpaths and in shops. However, they can be more difficult to use during jogging and will require greater effort to push when going up or down hills.
Side by side prams are wider than in-line or tandem double prams. They are a great option if you plan to have two children who are similar in age. The children can see and interact with one another from their seats. However, they are less maneuverable and could not pass through doors as easily as tandem strollers.
Non-convertible side by side prams cannot be used in single mode - you must purchase a different pram or stroller for your younger child. They offer the benefit of being less expensive and last longer than convertible double prams, since they aren't designed to be used in single and double modes. The biggest drawback is that your older child will soon outgrow the side-byside seat and will have to be transferred to a toddler's seat, which can be costly.