Buying a Double Buggy From Birth

When you are deciding on the perfect double buggy, there are a lot of things to consider. Katie Billingsley, a postnatal retreat expert from the Fourth Trimester, gave us her advice on everything ranging from seating options and age groups, to folding mechanisms and storage.

This buggy is essential for active families. It will grow with your family from toddlers to twins. It is lightweight and movable, and can maneuver through uneven terrain with ease.

What kind of buggy would you like?

A double buggy is perfect for transporting two children, but not necessarily of the same age, side-by-side. They can also function as prams. Each seat comes with an adjustable mechanism so that your children can lie down or sit in different positions. A lot of them have plenty of storage for everything from drinks and snacks to wipes and nappies. Often they're lightweight, easy to fold and small double stroller enough to fit into the car boot. If you're a frequent driver, it's worth checking that the buggy's ease of use with the wheels folded and also to get in and out of your car boot.

You may have seen this type of double buggy on other mums strollers or even in one as a kid. They're ideal for twins who are older or who want to keep pace with you. They are also available in various seating configurations, including 'cinema seats'. They're usually easy to drive and, if you go for a model with soft suspension, you can make light work of the kerbs.

Tandem buggies, which are easier to turn than side-by sides, are also popular. The second seat is located behind the first, rather than on top. They're typically larger than a side-by-side, and can be a bit bulky when folded, so it's essential to make sure they fit through doors and public transport. They can be used to transport twins or a toddler and baby or three kids with the addition of a buggy board.

Lastly there are the'single and double stroller-to-double' convertibles which can be used as a single pushchair from birth then convert to a double by attaching a second seat, carrycot or car seat to their clever frame. They're more expensive than tandem buggies and side-by-side buggies, but they offer the flexibility of a single buggie and come with a premium selling price. They're generally simple to steer, feature a huge storage basket and are able to handle uneven surfaces. Some models even come with an integrated ride-on board that can be used as "cinema seating" for your older child.

Do you have twins?

Double buggys are the ideal way to transport your children, regardless of whether they are twins or older siblings. There are two kinds of double buggies: tandem buggies which have one child sitting above the other, and side-byside buggies. Both buggies can accommodate two fixed seats. However side-by-side buggies tend to be narrower to be able to pass through doors. Tandems tend to be larger in general. They can also accommodate a carrycot and toddler seat.

Do you have a baby?

A younger sibling can feel like an overwhelming responsibility at first, especially when you must tend to the baby. They may also feel left out when they are in a baby carrier as you push the older one along and so having a double buggy from birth can make things simpler. It can also help your child settle into their new role as big brother or sister'.

The side-by-side double buggies could be a great option for twins, as both children will have the same view. However, they are bulky and heavy. The Leclerc B-AGILE DUAL is a streamlined double buggy with a unique frame that can be expanded widthwise and can accommodate two fixed seats. It also comes with a variety of configuration options such as using the second seat for an infant bassinet.

We recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer to families who are keen to explore. This clever buggy is a single pushchair which can be made double by adding an additional seat or carrycot (depending on the model). Its smooth ride is perfect for rough terrain, and it features numerous thoughtful features that will ensure that everyone is happy.

Do you require a best travel double stroller system?

Double buggies are an ideal way to move your children in a comfortable way. However they aren't required for every family. You might be able to get by with just one stroller and some attachments like baby straps and toddler carriers that permit your child and you to travel on their backs or in front.

If you do opt for a double buggy, there are three types to pick from: side-by-side, tandem and convertible. Side-by-side buggies come with two seats next to each other, so your children will be able see each other. However, they tend to be wider than a single pushchair and can be tricky to maneuver up and down kerbs. Tandem buggies offer an easier way to travel with a seat in the front and one in the rear, however they can be still quite heavy and long to push.

Convertible double buggies permit you to transform a single stroller into double buggy by attaching the bassinet or infant car seat to the frame. You can keep your child in the car seat until he/she is able to climb to the buggy seat. The Uppababy V2 is an excellent illustration - it could be used with twins as well as a toddler and an infant, or even three children using the option of a PiggyBack Board.

When your children get older and more capable and able, you can get double buggys to accompany them on bicycle rides or for day trips in which they prefer to walk. But, it's important to remember that they may not always prefer to ride in a buggy, and they could easily get tired and angry on longer outings.

Before you decide to purchase a double stroller, consider the factors mentioned above and your family's unique circumstances. A solid and reliable double stroller can simplify life especially if you need to navigate through busy streets or overcrowded shopping centers.