Twin & Sibling Rides: Side-By-Side vs Tandem Strollers
Whether you’ve just found out you’re expecting twins, or your toddler is about to become a big brother or sister, the double pushchair is the most important piece of transport you’ll ever buy. At ebebek, we understand that this decision is a major emotional and financial investment. This comprehensive double stroller buying guide UK edition is here to cut through the confusion. We’re going to compare the side-by-side and tandem models, weigh up the tandem buggy advantages and disadvantages, and provide the strategic blueprint you need to choose the model that fits your children's needs and your local high street.
What Is a Side-By-Side Stroller?
The side-by-side stroller, or double buggy features two seats of equal size positioned next to each other, allowing both children the same view of the world. This is often the preferred choice for twins as it provides equal comfort and accessibility for both babies from day one.
While they are wider than a standard single pushchair, most quality side-by-side models are 75cm wide or less, which clears the vast majority of standard UK interior and exterior doorways. The equal weight distribution is also brilliant; the balanced design means both children receive equally effective shock absorption and comfort when navigating bumps.
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Side-By-Side Stroller: At a Glance |
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Pros |
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Equal views and accessibility for both children (reduces arguments). |
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Often easier to push/steer than a tandem (better weight distribution). |
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Full recline seats are usually suitable for two newborns. |
What is a Tandem Stroller?
A tandem stroller, or inline double buggy, places one seat behind the other, creating a narrow, train-like profile. These buggies successfully mimic the footprint of a standard single pushchair, making them fantastic for navigating busy footpaths and fitting easily through tight shop doorways.
Tandems are particularly popular for siblings of different ages because they are highly versatile. For instance, they can accommodate a toddler seat in the front and a compatible car seat or bassinet for a newborn in the rear. Crucially, many tandem systems are modular, meaning they start as a single pushchair and can be adapted with a second seat kit as your family grows, making them the ultimate choice for future-proofing your investment. A compact, lightweight tandem stroller is a lifesaver for city dwellers.
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Tandem Stroller: At a Glance |
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Pros |
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Narrow profile, excellent for standard UK doorways and public transport. |
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Highly versatile and modular, supporting newborn and toddler combinations. |
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Usually easier to manage when folded in a small car boot. |
Side-By-Side vs Tandem: Key Differences (Comparison Table)
The table below breaks down the crucial differences to help you decide which structure best suits your family’s daily commute and lifestyle.
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Feature |
Side-By-Side Stroller |
Tandem Stroller (Inline) |
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Width |
Wider than a single pushchair (usually 75cm or less). |
Similar to the width of a single pushchair. |
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Length |
Standard, compact length. |
Significantly longer (can be cumbersome). |
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Steering |
Excellent balance, easier to mount kerbs. |
Can feel heavier and harder to push when fully loaded. |
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Child View |
Equal and clear view for both children. |
Rear child's view is often limited. |
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Door/Aisle Access |
Generally fits standard UK doors; check measurements for shop aisles. |
Fits most UK doorways and aisles easily. |
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Best For |
Twins or siblings very close in age (requiring equal seating). |
Siblings of different ages (toddler and newborn). |
Which Double Buggy is Right for Your Family?
The 'best' double pushchair isn't just one model—it's the one that flawlessly fits your children’s stage of life and your daily routine. Here’s how to match the buggy to your needs.
Best for Twins: Matching Needs, Matching Seats
When you have twins, they require equal comfort and support from day one. The side-by-side stroller is usually the champion here. It ensures both babies have the same seat size, the same recline options, and the same ability to interact. The equal weight distribution also means less strain on your back and shoulders, which is a lifesaver when you’re pushing two newborns.
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Checklist: Why a Side-By-Side is Best for Twins |
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Equal, full-recline seats from birth. |
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Balanced weight distribution for easier steering. |
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Both children can easily see and interact with each other. |
Best for Siblings of Different Ages: The Age Gap Advantage
If you have a toddler (age two or three) and a newborn, the tandem stroller often proves to be the most practical solution. The toddler is usually happy in a simple, upright seat, while the newborn can be accommodated in a car seat or a separate bassinet. The ability to use different seat styles simultaneously makes the tandem model versatile for managing the demands of different ages.
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Checklist: Why a Tandem is Best for Siblings |
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Versatile seating configurations (car seat + toddler seat). |
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Narrow profile is essential for city or bus travel. |
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Often features a standing platform/buggy board option for the older child. |
Navigating Your Day: Lifestyle Factors to Consider
Choosing your double pushchair must always start with a realistic look at your lifestyle. As a trusted partner in your parenting journey, ebebek encourages you to consider these factors:
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Lifestyle Factor |
Tandem Consideration |
Side-By-Side Consideration |
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The 'School Run' |
Excellent for busy pavements and tight gate entrances; narrow footprint is essential. |
Wider width requires careful path planning and may necessitate folding at the gate. |
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Shopping Trips |
Fits down most tight aisles in supermarkets and high street shops. |
Can be challenging in smaller, independent shops; always check the width. |
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Car Storage |
Folds more compactly and usually takes up less overall boot space. |
Tends to be bulkier when folded, taking up more width in the car boot. |
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Public Transport |
Ideal for getting on and off buses and trains without blocking the aisle. |
Often requires folding and can be difficult to manage during peak hours. |
The Non-Negotiables: Safety, Fold, and the Storage Basket Test
Let’s talk about the absolute essentials—the stuff that keeps your babies safe and stops you from pulling your hair out. Safety and practicality go hand-in-hand, and you should never compromise on either. Before buying any double pushchair, check these practical features:
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Harness: A five-point harness is non-negotiable for safety in both models.
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Brakes: Look for a reliable, easy-to-use foot brake that can be engaged quickly, even when wearing sandals.
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Fold: How easy is it to fold and lift? If you’re often out alone, a compact, lightweight tandem stroller might save your back.
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Basket Size: Two children mean double the gear. Ensure the storage basket is deep, accessible, and large enough for rain covers, changing bags, and snacks. Tandems sometimes have less accessible under-seat storage than their side-by-side counterparts.
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Car Seat Compatibility: Can you attach two infant car seats (for twins) or one car seat and one toddler seat (for siblings)? Check for necessary adaptors before you buy.
Parent Tips & Real Experiences
No amount of technical specification can replace the 'real human help' of a parent who has been there. Many parents of twins favour the equal seating of twin prams because it reduces arguments and makes feeding or comforting both children easier at the same time. Conversely, parents with a three-year-old and a new baby often praise tandem buggies for letting them keep their older child contained without having to purchase a pram that’s overly large for their single-child footprint.
The most common pain point? Weight. Always try pushing a fully loaded model, if possible. A tandem pushchair with two heavy toddlers can be much harder to push than a well-balanced side-by-side. The key lesson learned by most experienced parents is to buy a buggy that suits your family’s height and the kind of ground you cover most often. Don’t over-buy for the one rare trip; buy for the daily walk to the park or school gate.
A Quick Note on Investment and Sustainable Care: A quality double pushchair is a significant investment, but they often hold a high resale value, especially if well-maintained. Buying a reliable model today means you're making a smart choice for your budget and the planet, aligning with ebebek’s commitment to smarter ownership models.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which Double Stroller Should I Choose?
The best choice depends on your children’s ages and your lifestyle. Choose a side-by-side for twins (equal comfort and view) or for suburban living. Choose a tandem for siblings with an age gap or if you frequently use narrow public transport and shop aisles.
Can you use a tandem stroller from birth?
Yes, many modern tandem strollers are designed for use from birth, but you must check the seat specifications. The pushchair will usually require either a lie-flat bassinet attachment or compatible car seats (two for twins, or one for a single newborn) to ensure safe, ergonomic travel for your baby.
Will a side-by-side buggy fit through UK doors?
Most quality side-by-side buggies are designed to be 75cm wide or less, which fits the vast majority of standard UK interior and exterior doorways (typically 76-86cm wide). We always recommend measuring your main doorway (e.g., your hallway/front door) before purchasing to ensure a perfect fit.
What is the best double stroller for travel?
The best double stroller for travel is typically a lightweight tandem stroller or a compact side-by-side model designed for folding. For air travel, look for models that fold easily into a compact, self-standing package that fits the size restrictions for cabin baggage or gate check-in.
Are tandem strollers harder to push?
Tandem strollers can feel heavier and harder to push than side-by-side models, particularly when the heavier child is in the front seat, creating an imbalance. However, a well-engineered model with quality suspension and puncture-proof wheels will minimise this strain, especially on smooth urban pavements.
Do tandem strollers work for twins long-term?
Tandems work well for twins when they are young, especially with two car seats. However, once both twins are older toddlers, they may begin to dislike the restricted view and space in the rear seat. A side-by-side often offers a more comfortable and long-term solution for two large toddlers.
Ready to make a confident choice?
Explore our full range of pushchair buying options and find the perfect travel with baby system to fit your unique family adventure at ebebek.
Contact & Support
If you have further questions, our expert team is here to help.
ebebek Support Team
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Email: customerservice@ebebek.co.uk
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Phone: +44 (0) 2039 546 393 (Mon-Fri, 9:30am - 5:30pm GMT)