Buying a Double Buggy From Birth

When it comes to choosing the ideal double buggy, there are many aspects 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.

A must-have for active families, this buggy grows with your family from twins to toddlers. It's light and easy to maneuver and is able to tackle difficult all terrain double stroller with ease.

What type of buggy would you like?

A double buggy is great for transporting two children, not necessarily of the same age, side by side. They can be used as prams and come with a reclining mechanism in each seat so your children can lie down in various positions. Many of them also have plenty of storage for everything from drinks and snacks to nappies and wipes. Often they're lightweight, fold easily and are compact enough to fit in your car boot. If you're a frequent driver, it's worth checking the buggy's maneuverability using the folded wheels, and also to get in and out of your car boot.

The most common type of double buggy is the side by side one, which you've probably seen on other mothers' pushchairs or even rode in as a child. These are great for older siblings who wish to keep up with you or for twins and typically have many seating options (including "cinema" seats) for your children to pick from. They are generally easy to control, and if choose a model with a soft suspension, they are able to easily handle the kerbs.

Tandem buggies, which are simpler to turn than side-by-sides, are also very popular. This is because the second seat is positioned behind the first one, instead of sitting over it. They're generally larger than a side-by-side, and can be a bit bulky when folded, which is why it's essential to make sure they fit through doors and on public transport. They can be used for twins, a baby and toddler or three children with the addition of a buggy.

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 tend to be more expensive than side by sides or tandem buggies but offer lots of flexibility and have a great resale value. They are easy to steer and have an ample storage basket. They also have the ability to handle uneven surfaces. Some models even come with a built-in ride-on board and cinema seating for your older child.

Do you have twins?

Double buggys are the ideal method of transporting 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 by side buggies. Both buggies can accommodate two seats fixed. However, side-by-side buggies are narrower to be able to pass through doors. Tandems are typically larger overall. They can also accommodate both an infant seat and a carrycot.

Do you have a baby?

At beginning having a younger sibling could seem like a lot of responsibility, especially if you're caring for the baby. A double buggy can also allow children to feel included when you place them in a baby carrier and push the older child. It will also give your child a sense of pride as they get to be "big brother or sister" and help them get used to their role.

Side-by-side double buggy that converts to single buggies are usually considered to be the best choice for twins as they allow both children to enjoy the same view, but they can be heavy and heavy. We like the sleek B-AGILE DOUBLE from Leclerc which has an innovative frame that expands in width to accommodate two seats fixed. It also offers various configuration options, including using the second seat as an infant carrier or bassinet.

We recommend the Mountain Buggy cheap double stroller Trailblazer to active families who are keen to explore. This clever buggy can start off as a single pushchair but it can then be converted into a double by adding an additional seat, a carrycot or a car seat (depending on the model). Its smooth ride is perfect for rough terrain, and it has numerous thoughtful features that will keep everyone happy.

Do you require a business travel system?

Double buggies are excellent to transport your children around in comfort but they're not a necessary purchase for every family. You could make do with one stroller with a few attachments, such as baby carriers and toddler straps that permit you and your child to travel on their backs or in front.

If you do opt for a double buggy there are three kinds to choose from: side by side, tandem and convertible. Side-by-side buggies come with two seats that are next to each other, meaning that your children will be able to see each one another. However, these are generally larger than a single pushchair, and can be tricky to maneuver around kerbs. Tandem buggies are small, with one seat in the front and a second one at the back. However they can be heavy and difficult to push.

Convertible double buggies are great because they let you convert your stroller to a dual buggy by simply attaching an infant bassinet or car seat to the frame. You can keep your baby in the car seat until he/she is able to climb up into the buggy seat. The UPPAbaby V2 is a good example - it can be used for twins as well as a toddler and a baby or even three children using the optional PiggyBack Board.

When your children get older and more capable, you can use a double buggy to take them on bicycle rides or for day trips in which they prefer walking. It's important to keep in mind that your children might not always enjoy being in a stroller and could become tired and disgruntled on longer outings.

Before you invest in a double stroller, take into consideration the factors mentioned above and your family's specific circumstances. A solid and reliable double stroller with car seat stroller will simplify your life especially if you need to navigate busy streets or crowded shopping centres.