Buying a Double Buggy From Birth

There are a lot of things to consider when selecting the ideal double buggy right from the time of birth. Katie Billingsley, a postnatal retreat expert from the Fourth Trimester, gave us her tips on everything from seating options and age groups, to folding mechanisms and storage.

A must-have purchase for families with active children, this buggy grows with your family from twins to toddlers. It is lightweight, has great maneuverability and can handle uneven terrain with ease.

What type of buggy do want?

A double buggy is ideal for transporting two children, not necessarily of the same age, side-by-side. They can also be used as prams and come with a reclining mechanism within each seat, allowing your children can lie down in various positions. A lot of them have plenty of storage space for everything from drinks and snacks to wipes and nappies. They're usually lightweight they fold easily and are compact enough to fit into your car's boot. If you're someone who drives a lot, it's important to make sure the buggy's maneuverability using the folded wheels, as well as to get it in and out of your car boot.

You might have seen this type of double buggy on other moms strollers, or even in one as a kid. They're ideal for older siblings or twins who want to keep pace with you. They also come in a variety of seating configurations and styles, including 'cinema chairs'. They are usually simple to steer, and if you opt for a model with a soft suspension, they can easily navigate kerbs.

Tandem buggies are also a popular option because they're more maneuverable than a side-by-side. This is because the second seat is positioned behind the first, rather than on top of it. They're usually larger than a side-by-side, and can be bulky when folded, which is why it's important to check they'll be able to pass through doors and public transport. They can be used to transport twins, a toddler, three children, with the addition of an extra buggy board.

Lastly there are the'single-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 or side-by-side buggies, however they provide the flexibility of a single buggie and a very high resale price. They are easy to steer and come with large storage bins. They also have the ability to handle uneven surfaces. Some come with a built-in ride-on board for children older than and 'cinema seats'.

Do you have twins?

Double buggys are the best twin stroller way to transport your children, regardless of whether they are twins or older siblings. There are two kinds of double buggies: tandem buggies where one child sits above the other, and side-byside buggies. Both can be fitted with two fixed seats, but side-byside buggies tend to be smaller in size to fit through doors. Tandems are generally wider overall. They can also accommodate a toddler seat and a carrycot.

Do you have a baby?

At beginning the idea of having a younger sibling may seem like a lot of responsibility, particularly if you're also caring for the infant. They may be feeling a little secluded if they are placed in a baby carrier while you push the older sibling to the side and so having a double to Single buggy buggy right from the beginning can make things simpler. It will also give your child a sense of pride as they become a "big brother or sister" and help them get used to their role.

The side-by-side double buggies can be a great choice for twins, since both children will have the same view. However, they are bulky and heavy. We love the sleek B-AGILE DOUBLE by Leclerc which has an innovative frame that can be expanded in width to accommodate two seats fixed and provides various configuration options, such as the second seat being used as an infant carrier or bassinet.

Alternatively, we recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for families who love to explore. This innovative buggy is a single-pushchair that can be transformed into a double by adding an additional seat or carrycot (depending on the model). Its smooth ride is ideal for rough terrain, and it features many thoughtful features that will keep everyone happy.

Do you require an effective travel system for your business?

Double buggies are ideal to transport your children around in comfort but they're not the ideal purchase for every family. You may be able make do with a single stroller double, and some attachments like baby straps and toddler carriers that allow you and your child to travel on their backs or in front.

There are three different types of double buggies: tandem, side by side double Stroller-by-side and convertible. Side-by-side buggies come with two seats that are close to each other, so your children can see each other. However, these tend to be wider than a single pushchair, and are difficult to maneuver around kerbs. Tandem buggies offer an alternative that is smaller, with a seat in the front and one in the rear, however they can be still quite long and heavy to push.

Convertible double buggies permit you to convert one twin stroller with car seats into double buggy by attaching the bassinet or infant car seat to the frame. You can leave your baby in the car seat until he or she is ready to move up into the buggy seat. The UPPababy V2 is a great illustration - it could be used for twins, a toddler and one or more children with the optional PiggyBack Board.

When your children are older and have more endurance, a double car seat stroller-buggy can be used to accompany them on bike rides or other day trips where they might prefer to walk. But, it's important to remember that they might not always want to be in a buggy, and they could easily become disgruntled and tired when they are on longer excursions.

Before you make the decision to buy a double buggy at the time of birth, take some time to think about the above points and the particular circumstances of your family. A reliable and sturdy double buggy can make your life easier, particularly when you have to navigate busy streets or overcrowded malls.